Casino Disputes – Understanding your Rights

Though casino disputes are not generally a problem for those casinos that operate above board and players who understand wagering requirements and bonus terms, they do happen. For the most part, you probably won’t find yourself embroiled in a casino dispute at any point in your online gaming life, but this could happen and if it does, you need to be prepared.

Having to deal with problems at any online casino South Africa is something many players don’t want to think about. However, given the terms and conditions that are attached to bonuses, these disputes can occur and when they do, many players are unsure about their rights, and how to have a difficult discussion with the online casino about what they are entitled to. As such, here are three key things to keep in mind the next time you play at online casinos accepting rand (ZAR), to help you deal with disputes.

1. Always check the terms and conditions – sometimes, we have so much fun playing online games that we forget that online casinos are businesses. As such, they need to protect themselves from fraudsters by putting strict terms and conditions into place for all players. This means that when you get a bonus, it is up to you to check the terms and conditions of that bonus before you claim it. Many disputes stem from problems when cashing out after winning money using a bonus. What you need to know is that if you don’t meet those wagering requirements, you will not be able to claim your winnings.

2. Contact casino support – many disputes are relatively easy to resolve if you give the casino a chance to resolve them. So before you start calling up lawyers, use the live chat function, send an email or pick up the phone and have a discussion with the customer support staff at the casino. What you might find is that the casino is keen to resolve any problems you’re having and will do what it can to keep up the positive relationship it has with you. However, don’t expect miracles. While the customer support staff can help you resolve issues, they cannot break the rules for you.

3. Last resort – if you feel that you are being treated unfairly by a casino, you can contact any of the governing councils for online casinos, including your province’s gambling legislator (such as the Gauteng Gambling Board), the Interactive Gaming Council or eCogra, if the online casino carries a certification from the latter. As a rule though, try to resolve any disputes with the casino before “going higher up the ranks”. Not only will this ensure that the dispute is resolved quickly, but it generally ensures that the relationship you have with the casino stays positive.

To avoid disputes, ensure that the casino you are playing at is registered with the appropriate gambling councils. If you are not sure which casinos are considered reliable, you can always check our list of top online casinos South Africa.