Worried you might be placing a bet on a fraudulent website? You’re right to be cautious. The single most important step before you deposit any money is to verify the site’s official license. This guide will show you exactly how to do it in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, protecting your funds and personal data.

The most direct way to verify a site is to check the official public register of the gambling regulator in your country. Don’t trust the license logo on the betting site alone. Cross-check it with the official source.

Here are the official regulators:

• Tanzania 🇹🇿: Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT)
• Kenya 🇰🇪: Betting Control and Licensing Board of Kenya (BCLB)
• Uganda 🇺🇬: National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB)

In a hurry? Here’s the 3-step verification process that works in all three countries:

1. Find the License Number on the Betting Site: Scroll to the very bottom (the footer) of the betting site’s homepage. Look for a license number and the name of the operating company.
2. Visit the Official Regulator’s Website: Click the appropriate link above for your country. Navigate to their list of licensed operators. This is often called “Licensees,” “Licensed Operators,” or a “Public Register.”
3. Confirm the License: Search for the betting site or its parent company in the official list. If it’s there, you’re good to go. If you can’t find it, do not use the site.

This guide will now walk you through the detailed process for each country, explain the dangerous red flags to watch for, and give you a complete checklist for ensuring a betting site is 100% legitimate.

Why You Absolutely Must Verify a Betting Site Before Depositing

Skipping the license check is like leaving your front door wide open. It’s a risk that’s simply not worth taking with your hard-earned money. Verification isn’t just a formality; it’s your primary shield against a host of potential problems.

🛡️ Financial Security & Guaranteed Payouts

A licensed betting site is legally and financially accountable to the regulator. This means they are required to have sufficient funds to pay out all winning bets. Unlicensed sites have no such obligation. They can disappear overnight with your deposits and winnings, leaving you with no recourse. Verification ensures the company is legitimate and has the financial backing to honor your bets.

⚖️ Fair Play and Game Integrity

Regulators enforce strict standards for fairness. Licensed sites must use certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) for their casino games and have transparent odds for their sports betting markets. This guarantees that the games are not rigged against you. With an unlicensed operator, you have no assurance of fair play.

🔒 Data Privacy and Protection

When you sign up for a betting site, you provide sensitive personal and financial information. Licensed operators are required by law to have robust security measures, like SSL encryption, to protect your data from hackers. Unlicensed sites may have weak security or could even be designed to steal and sell your personal information.

🤝 Legal Recourse and Dispute Resolution

If you have a dispute with a licensed betting site—for example, a disagreement over a bet settlement or a delayed withdrawal—you have a powerful ally: the regulator. You can file an official complaint, and the regulatory body will investigate and mediate on your behalf. With an unlicensed site, you are on your own. There is no authority to turn to for help.

🎲 Commitment to Responsible Gambling

A key mandate for regulators is to protect vulnerable consumers. Licensed sites are required to provide responsible gambling tools, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and links to support organizations. This demonstrates a commitment to player welfare, a concept that illegal operators completely ignore.

Verifying a license is the foundation of safe and enjoyable online betting. It’s a simple check that provides comprehensive protection.

How to Verify a Licensed Betting Site in Tanzania 🇹🇿

In Tanzania, the online betting landscape is regulated by the Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT). They are responsible for issuing licenses and ensuring all operators comply with the Gaming Act.

Meet the Regulator: The Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT)

The GBT’s mission is to ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in the gaming industry. They maintain a public list of all companies licensed to offer sports betting, online casinos, and other gaming services in the country. Their official website is the only source of truth for verifying a license.

Official GBT Website: https://www.gamingboard.go.tz/

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying a Tanzanian Betting Site

Let’s walk through the exact process using the GBT’s official portal.

Step 1: Locate the License Information on the Betting Site Go to the betting site you want to check. Scroll down to the footer at the very bottom of the page. You should see a statement mentioning their license, the name of the parent company, and often a license number. For example, you might see something like: “XYZ Bet is operated by ABC Company Ltd, which is licensed by the Gaming Board of Tanzania under License No. SB0000111.”

Step 2: Navigate to the GBT’s List of Licensees Open the official GBT website: https://www.gamingboard.go.tz/. On the main menu, look for a section titled “Licensees” or “Licensed Operators.” Sometimes this information is under a “Services” or “Publications” tab.

Step 3: Search for the Operator in the Official Register The GBT provides a list of all licensed entities. This might be a searchable database or a PDF document. Look for the category for “Sports Betting.” Carefully scan the list for the parent company name you found in Step 1 (e.g., ABC Company Ltd).

Step 4: Cross-Reference and Confirm Once you find the company name, confirm that the trading name (e.g., XYZ Bet) and the license number match what is displayed on the betting site. If the details match the official GBT register, the site is licensed and legitimate.

What If It’s Not on the List? If you cannot find the company on the GBT’s official list, stop immediately. Do not deposit any money. The site is likely operating illegally in Tanzania, and you will have no protection.

Common Red Flags for Tanzanian Bettors

• Missing TZS (Tanzanian Shilling): Legitimate local sites will always allow deposits, bets, and withdrawals in TZS.
• No Local Payment Methods: A licensed site will offer popular Tanzanian payment options like Tigo Pesa, M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and HaloPesa. The absence of these is a major warning sign.
• Vague or Missing License Information: If you can’t easily find the license number or parent company name in the site’s footer, be very suspicious.

How to Verify a Licensed Betting Site in Kenya 🇰🇪

Kenya has one of the most developed betting markets in East Africa, regulated by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). Verifying a license here is a straightforward process.

Meet the Regulator: The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB)

The BCLB is the government body mandated to control and license all betting, lottery, and gaming activities in Kenya. They are known for being quite strict and publicly publish a list of all approved operators for the current financial year.

Official BCLB Website: https://bclb.go.ke/

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying a Kenyan Betting Site

Follow these steps to ensure the site you’re using is BCLB-approved.

Step 1: Find the BCLB License Number on the Site Visit the homepage of the betting site in question. Scroll to the footer. You’re looking for text that reads something like: “DEF Bet is licensed by BCLB under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act, Cap 131, Laws of Kenya under License No. 0000XXX.” Note both the company name and the license number.

Step 2: Go to the BCLB’s Official Website Open the BCLB’s portal: https://bclb.go.ke/. Be careful of fake “clone” sites; always use the official URL.

Step 3: Find the List of Licensed Betting Firms On the BCLB website, there is typically a prominent section or link on the homepage for “Licensed Betting Firms” or “Licensed Operators.” This list is usually updated for the current financial year (e.g., “2024/2025 Licensed Firms”).

Step 4: Check the Official List The BCLB often provides this list as a downloadable PDF or a web page. Open it and use your browser’s search function (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) to search for the betting site’s brand name (e.g., DEF Bet) or its operating company.

Step 5: Verify the Details Confirm that the name on the official list matches the site you are on. The BCLB list will show the trading name and the licensed company, confirming its legal status. If the name is on that official list, the site is safe to use.

What If It’s Not on the BCLB List? Do not proceed. Any site accepting bets from Kenyans without a BCLB license is operating illegally. Your funds are not safe, and you have no legal protection.

Common Red Flags for Kenyan Bettors

• No M-Pesa or Airtel Money: These mobile money platforms are ubiquitous in Kenya. A legitimate, licensed operator targeting Kenyans will have them integrated as a primary payment method.
• Aggressive “Guaranteed Win” Marketing: The BCLB has cracked down on misleading advertising. Be wary of sites that promise impossible returns or guaranteed wins.
• Missing Paybill Number: Licensed companies will have an official M-Pesa Paybill number for deposits. If a site asks you to send money to a personal phone number, it is a scam.

How to Verify a Licensed Betting Site in Uganda 🇺🇬

In Uganda, all gaming activities, including online sports betting, fall under the jurisdiction of the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB).

Meet the Regulator: National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB)

The NLGRB was established by the Lotteries and Gaming Act of 2016. Its role is to supervise and regulate the entire gaming sector in Uganda, ensuring operators are compliant and players are protected.

Official NLGRB Website: https://lgrb.go.ug/

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying a Ugandan Betting Site

Here’s how to use the NLGRB’s resources to confirm a site’s legitimacy.

Step 1: Identify the License Details on the Betting Platform Load the betting site and navigate to the footer area. As with the other countries, you should find a legal disclaimer that includes the operating company’s name and a statement about its license from the NLGRB. For example: “GHI Bet is licensed by the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board of Uganda.”

Step 2: Access the Official NLGRB Portal Open a new tab and go directly to the NLGRB website: https://lgrb.go.ug/.

Step 3: Locate the Register of Licensed Operators On the NLGRB website, look for a menu item like “Operators,” “Licensees,” or “Register.” Click on this to find the list of companies permitted to operate in Uganda. The NLGRB typically categorizes them by license type (e.g., Sports Betting, Casino, etc.).

Step 4: Search for the Betting Site in the Register Browse the “Sports Betting” or “Online Gaming” category. Look for the brand name (GHI Bet) or its parent company. The official register is the definitive source.

Step 5: Confirm and Proceed (or Stop) If the site or its operating company is listed in the NLGRB’s official register, you can be confident that it is a legal and regulated entity. If you cannot find any mention of it, you must assume it is unlicensed and unsafe.

Common Red Flags for Ugandan Bettors

• No UGX (Ugandan Shilling): A site properly licensed for Uganda will transact in UGX. If you’re forced to use USD or EUR, it may not be locally licensed.
• Lack of MTN Mobile Money or Airtel Money: These are the leading payment methods in Uganda. Any serious, licensed operator will offer them for seamless deposits and withdrawals.
• Poor Customer Support: Legitimate companies invest in customer service. If the only contact method is a generic email address and there’s no phone number or live chat, be cautious.

Beyond the License: 5 Other Trust Signals to Check ✅

A valid license is non-negotiable, but it’s not the only thing to look for. Truly reputable sites go the extra mile to prove their trustworthiness. Before you deposit, run through this quick checklist.

1. Secure Website (HTTPS): Look at your browser’s address bar. Does the URL start with https:// and have a padlock icon? 🔐 This means the connection is encrypted, protecting your password and payment details from being intercepted. Never enter personal information on a site that is not secure.
2. Clear & Fair Terms and Conditions (T&Cs): A trustworthy site will have easily accessible T&Cs that are written in clear language. Pay special attention to the rules for bonuses (wagering requirements) and withdrawals (limits, processing times, and fees). If the T&Cs are confusing, hard to find, or seem unfair, it’s a red flag.
3. Reputable and Local Payment Methods: As mentioned in the country-specific sections, the availability of trusted local payment options (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, Airtel Money, MTN Mobile Money) is a huge sign of legitimacy. It shows the company has established local business partnerships.
4. Responsive and Accessible Customer Support: Before signing up, test their customer support. Send a question via live chat or email. How quickly do they respond? Is the answer helpful and professional? A site with poor or non-existent support will be a nightmare to deal with if you have a problem. Look for 24/7 live chat, a local phone number, and a support email.
5. Positive Online Reputation and Reviews: What are other bettors saying about the site? Search for reviews online. While some reviews can be biased, look for consistent patterns. Are there widespread complaints about delayed payouts or voided bets? Remember to read reviews from multiple sources. For a curated list, you can check our analysis of the most trusted betting sites in East Africa.

What to Do If You Suspect You’ve Been Scammed

If you’ve already deposited money on a site you now believe to be unlicensed or fraudulent, it can be a stressful experience. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Attempt to Withdraw Your Funds: Immediately try to withdraw any remaining balance from your account.
2. Gather Evidence: Take screenshots of your account balance, betting history, deposit confirmations, and any conversations you’ve had with their customer support.
3. Report to the Official Regulator: File a formal complaint with the GBT, BCLB, or NLGRB. Even if the site is unlicensed, your report helps them identify and take action against illegal operators. Provide all the evidence you’ve collected.
4. Contact Your Payment Provider: If you deposited using a bank or mobile money, contact them immediately. Inform them that the transaction was with a fraudulent merchant and ask if a chargeback or reversal is possible.
5. Warn Others: Share your experience on public forums and social media to prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is it safe to use an international betting site that doesn’t have a local license?

A: No, it is not recommended. While some international sites may be reputable elsewhere, if they are not licensed in Tanzania, Kenya, or Uganda, you have zero legal protection within your country. The local regulator cannot help you with any disputes, and your funds are not protected by local laws.

Q2: What’s the difference between a license number and a company registration number?

A: A company registration number shows a business is legally registered as an entity, but a gaming license specifically authorizes them to offer betting services. A company can be registered but not have a license to operate a betting site. Always look for the gaming license.

Q3: How often do I need to verify a site’s license?

A: You should verify it once before you first sign up. It’s also good practice to re-check annually. Regulators like the BCLB in Kenya issue licenses for a specific financial year, so checking their updated list each year is a smart move.

Q4: Can I trust betting site review websites?

A: Some review sites are excellent, while others are not. A trustworthy review site will encourage you to perform your own verification checks (like we are here) and will link to official regulators. Be wary of sites that only list positive reviews and pressure you to sign up without any safety guidance.

Q5: What if a site claims their license is “pending”?

A: A “pending” license is the same as no license. Do not deposit any money until the company appears on the official regulator’s public register of fully licensed operators.

The Final Word: Your Safety is Your Responsibility

The power to protect yourself from betting scams is entirely in your hands. The verification process in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda is designed to be public and straightforward for this very reason.

Before you are swayed by a large bonus or attractive odds, take the five minutes required to perform this crucial check. By confirming a site’s license directly with the Gaming Board of Tanzania, the Betting Control and Licensing Board of Kenya, or the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board of Uganda, you ensure your betting experience is safe, fair, and secure.

Always verify before you bet.