Football is one of the most popular sports in the world. We can even say that it is the most popular as no other sports activity comes close. So, it’s no wonder that it is the focus of so many betting activities.
While gambling and sports betting are rapidly becoming legal in many parts of the world, there are still many unregistered bookmakers out there. If you want to cooperate with one of the gray-area outlets, that’s fine by us. You just need to follow a few of our guidelines to do it as safely as possible.
What Is Underground Betting?
As its name suggests it is a type of betting that operates underground. When we say underground, we mean under the level of regulations. These bookies are usually not within the regulated sphere. All of the licensed bookmakers work under strict gambling laws, regulations, and guidelines.
On the other side, underground bookmakers swim in uncharted waters and are usually located in the gray area of legal operations. Without regulations, they operate more freely in some departments that players like but it does come with a slight dose of risks. Some of them are clear, while others can’t be predicted.
Risks and Dangers
While this might sound strange, the biggest risk when betting at an unregistered outlet might be winning big. You can win a massive sum of money, only to wake up and find out that your favorite bookie does not exist anymore. When we talk about underground bookmakers and casinos this is not a rare occurrence.
Sometimes their goal is not to enter the regulated waters out of the underground obscurity. Instead, they can be money-laundering schemes, non-payment outlets, and fraudulent schemes from the get-go.
So, even if you find it enticing to gamble at one of these underground outlets due to better odds or easier registration, you need to know the risks and dangers and any legal consequences this might have for you. So, how to counter it?
Do Your Research
When you see a store that has its good on discount you don’t just walk across the street without looking right and left. You don’t! Have the same approach when it comes to underground betting. Do your research.
You need to learn about the outlet you’re going to use before you lay down your first deposit. A background check is necessary even if you are not a PI. Also, according to bitcoinist there are plenty of bookmakers who are quite good even if they’re not on BetStop so evaluate your choices based on that too.
Don’t Ignore the Red Flags
When it comes to websites that want to be deceptive, they often have a tell. Red flags with underground bookmakers are all over the place. You only don’t need to ignore them. Look at them, recognize them, and act on what you know.
The best way to recognize the red flags when it comes to underground bookmakers who aim to be fraudulent are the odds that are too good to be true, aggressive promotion, lack of customer support, privacy policy, and terms of use. So, when you see any of these red flags, reconsider your dedication to that given bookmaker.
Managing Your Bankroll
This is a lesson you need to always have on your mind. Whether you’re betting on a regular platform or an underground betting arena. You need to take good care of your bankroll. In the latter case, this is even more paramount. So, how to take perfect care of your bankroll?
First, you need to set a sum on the side only for betting. Never go above that sum. Don’t chase losses, and don’t bet what you can’t afford to lose. All of that needs to be within the borders of your gambling strategy. We assume you have one, right? The choice of a bookmaker doesn’t matter all that much if you’re taking good care of your finances.
Responsible Betting
When you lay down a bet, the moment can take you too far. One win can lead to ten losses, and there’s no guarantee that your win will arrive after you lose a dozen times. What you always need to remember is that gambling can cause an addiction.
Even on highly regulated websites that are required to point out this fact you can stray. When you’re playing in an underground bookmaker you can lose track of what you’re doing. Know your limits; know when to stop. Love the game, not the gambling process.
Seek Alternatives
As we said, there are paths to an underground bookmaker that appear to be enticing. Yes, they will try to lure you in. But, is it so hard to resist the temptation? It shouldn’t be! After all, we have so many legal options that are equally good, or even better.
So, seek alternatives, look for reputable online casinos and bookmakers, and ensure the safety of your bets and your money. After all, every gambler wants payment after a win, fair odds, and full legality of the money transfer. Why compromise on this?
Report All Suspicious Activities
Even if you fall victim to an underground bookmaker scam, the story shouldn’t end there. You need to be a beacon that will light the way for other players. The schemes that lure the players to uncharted waters of underground gambling are always present.
You need to step up when you recognize fraudulent activity. Report it, and you will help not only yourself, but other players, and even that establishment itself. With enough reports, they will either disappear or enter the legal waters of sports betting. In the end, it could be a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Summary
Being a member of an underground bookmaker can be a thrilling experience that carries a few perks with itself, but it is like trying to swim in a pool full of sharks. Sooner or later, you will get bitten.
You will face both legal and financial risks that in the end are not worth it. Put a priority mark on your safety, research online betting outlets, manage your finances and gambling activities responsibly, and try to enjoy the game without taking too many risks.
