How to spot an illegal online casino?

It is one of the risks that comes with the growing popularity of online casinos. As more and more Belgian players try their luck on the Internet, danger is never far away. Behind legal platforms also hide many illegal online casino sites operating without authorization and without any responsible gaming measures.

Knowing how to distinguish between a legal online casino and an illegal online casino site in Belgium is essential to play safely and protect your personal data. That is why today’s article on our blog focuses on this important topic.

In Belgium, the gambling sector is strictly regulated by the Gaming Commission (CJH). This authority grants official licenses to operators who comply with transparency rules, security standards and responsible gaming obligations. To operate, your favourite online casino Loco Casino also had to obtain this license.

What are the illegal sites?

Only websites holding a valid license are allowed to legally offer online casino games to Belgian players. However, many foreign platforms, attracted by the popularity of the Belgian market, attempt to lure users without having this authorization. How can you tell them apart from legal casinos?

These illegal online casino sites represent a major risk: they do not guarantee the protection of deposits, nor the confidentiality of data, and may even let you win the jackpot while refusing to pay out your winnings.

Illegal sites may offer unsecured games, unrealistic bonuses or unreliable payment methods. Playing on such platforms exposes users to significant financial and legal risks.

How to recognize a legal online casino site?

Identifying a legal online casino is simple when you know what to look for. Official licensing, secure payment methods and transparent information are key indicators. Here are the essential checks to ensure you play safely.

Check the Licence from the Gaming Commission (BGC)

A legal casino must clearly display its licence number as well as the official CJH logo, just like on our interface. You can check the validity of this licence directly on the Commission’s website. The absence of these elements is a serious warning sign.

Secure and reliable payment methods

Licensed casinos offer secure and reliable payment and deposit methods such as Bancontact, Paysafecard or SEPA transfers. Illegal sites often use obscure or difficult-to-trace methods, which increases the risk of fraud.

Legal notices and responsible gaming policy

Legal websites display terms and conditions, a player protection policy and links to prevention organisations such as Stop Jeu. A site that provides none of these elements is very likely illegal.

Warning signs of an illegal online casino

Certain clues should immediately raise suspicion when browsing a casino site. Overly generous bonuses, lack of identity checks or unclear information often reveal illegal platforms. Here are the most common red flags to watch for.

Overly attractive bonuses and promotions

Offers that seem too generous, such as a 500% no-deposit bonus on dice slots, are often a trap. They are designed to attract players onto unregulated platforms.

No Identity Verification (KYC)

Legal casinos always require identity verification to protect players and comply with the law. With us, registration can be done for instance via itsme. The absence of this step is a major red flag.

Poorly Translated Site or Missing Information

An illegal platform may display poorly translated pages, vague information about the operator or no legal address at all. All these clues should alert the player.

What to do if you have played on an illegal online casino site?

If you realise that you have played on an illegal online casino, it is important to act quickly. Start by avoiding new deposits and do not provide any additional personal documents.

Then contact your bank to block transactions and, if needed, report the site to the Gaming Commission. Even if recovering your funds may be difficult, these steps help limit risks and protect other players.

Playing safely

Identifying an illegal site in Belgium relies on simple checks: CJH licence, secure payment methods, clear legal notices and responsible gaming policies. Playing only on licensed sites guarantees a safe, fair and law-compliant experience.

At Loco Casino, we always encourage our readers to prioritise transparency and safety above all. It is better to rely on caution than on promises that sound too good to be true.