Many players in betting companies are discouraged by the identity verification procedure. Firstly, it takes time and requires certain actions — taking photos of documents, confirming payment details, etc. Secondly, many are afraid to share documented personal information online. Let’s examine whether it is possible to place sports bets without identity verification and how safe the verification process really is. We will also find out why bookmakers require confirmation of their clients’ personal information.
What is identification in bookmakers and why is it needed
In addition to registration on bookmaker websites, account verification is also required. This process confirms several personal details provided by the client — identity, age, residence, ownership of payment details, and tax status.
This verification serves several purposes:
- Player’s age verification. All bookmakers strictly enforce the rule that only users aged 18 or 21 (depending on jurisdiction) are allowed to play.
- Ownership of the payment card or wallet. This measure protects the client. The bookmaker ensures that the winnings are paid to the right person. In some companies, the player’s solvency or financial status is also checked.
- Identity and residence confirmation. These details are verified for several reasons. They are required in case of disputes or legal proceedings. They may also be needed if tax authorities in the player’s country have questions.
- Prevention of money laundering. Bookmakers prevent large transfers that are not used for betting purposes, as well as transactions between different client accounts or cards.
If you’re afraid to provide document photos to a bookmaker, it’s better to refuse their services. However, there’s little reason to worry if you follow safety rules. Each bookmaker describes the document submission process in detail. Follow the instructions — cover sensitive information on documents and cards.
Identification on offshore bookmaker websites
When placing bets with offshore bookmakers, players are not breaking the law. The ban applies to the companies themselves, and their websites are blocked. However, users can easily bypass the ban via mirror sites.
In a legal bookmaker, account verification takes place immediately after registration. Without it, you won’t be able to deposit funds. In an offshore company, however, this is possible. Financial transactions become available right after account creation.
In most cases, “passport control” begins when requesting the first withdrawal. Therefore, it’s impossible to completely avoid verification, even with offshore operators.
If you are playing for fun, place small bets. Most international bookmakers set limits ($20, $30, $50) below which verification is not required for withdrawal.
Risks of betting without identification
When placing sports bets without verification, a person remains anonymous.
However, this comes with significant risks:
- the bookmaker may refuse to pay out winnings and still demand identity documents;
- it’s impossible to appeal to law enforcement or any court jurisdiction, as there is no proof of play with the bookmaker;
- the bookmaker’s administration is not obligated to review any claims from an unverified client;
- betting with unlicensed bookmakers is risky in itself, as the client is not protected by national law.
But can you trust offshore bookmakers with your personal documents? This is a complex question. It’s risky to use small, unknown bookmakers whose websites have only existed for a few years.
