Who Regulates What
In the Philippines, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) regulates and licenses casino-style gaming, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) operates and oversees charity lotteries and lotto games. Rules and licensing categories change over time, so always confirm the current position with the regulator.
Step-by-Step Licence Check
- Step 1
Find the licence claim
Look in the footer or about page for a licence statement, including the licence holder’s name and number.
- Step 2
Verify it with the regulator
Open the regulator’s official website yourself, and check that the operator or brand is named. A licence badge image on its own proves nothing.
- Step 3
Match the company name
The operator named in the terms should match the licence holder. Be careful if it is vague or missing.
- Step 4
Check how long the domain has existed
A WHOIS lookup shows when a domain was registered. A very new domain claiming a long history is a warning sign.
- Step 5
Read the terms and privacy policy
Look for clear rules on withdrawals, age limits and complaints. Copied or missing text is a red flag.
- Step 6
Check payment and support options
Legitimate operators use identifiable payment channels and offer published support. Avoid sites that ask you to send money to a personal e-wallet account.
- Step 7
Look for player protection tools
Deposit limits, time reminders and self-exclusion are signs of a regulated operator.
Red Flags
- No licence information or a licence you cannot verify.
- Promises of guaranteed winnings or “risk-free” profit.
- Pressure to deposit quickly, or to move the chat to a private app.
- Requests for your password or OTP.
- Withdrawal rules that appear only after you deposit.
What If You Cannot Verify the Licence?
Do not deposit, and do not upload your ID. If you have already shared details, change the passwords involved and follow the steps in our phishing guide.
Conclusion
Verify, then register. Making the check a habit protects your money and your personal data. When you are ready, you can follow the registration guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is a licence logo on a website enough?
No. Logos can be copied. Verify the licence on the regulator’s own website.
Is a .ph domain proof of a Philippine licence?
No. A domain name does not prove regulation.
Where can I report a suspicious site?
To the regulator, to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group or the NBI Cybercrime Division, and to the hosting or social platform where you found it.
