World Cup: betting fraud alert  

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, a TransUnion study highlights an expected rise in sports betting in the UK, but also reveals that a significant proportion of young adults have already fallen victim to fraud on unauthorised betting sites.  

A craze that also attracts fraudsters  

The 2026 World Cup is set to be one of the major sporting and social events of the year. But as bettors’ interest grows, so too do the risks associated with unauthorised sites. This is the finding of a study by TransUnion, a company specialising in credit information, which has observed a strong intention to bet in the UK ahead of the tournament.  

The study, carried out by OnePoll between 11 and 14 May amongst 1,000 British adults, highlights a key point: young adults, particularly those aged 25–34, are the most likely to increase their betting activity during the tournament. They are also among those most at risk of fraud linked to unauthorised operators. 

The most striking figure relates to this age group: one in eight members, or 12 per cent, say they have already knowingly fallen victim to fraud via an unauthorised betting site. The proportion stands at 10 per cent among 35–44-year-olds, whilst it drops significantly among older age groups, with just 1 per cent among 55–64-year-olds.  

25–34-year-olds: the driving force behind the rise in betting  

According to TransUnion, no other age group is as keen to bet more during the World Cup as the 25–34 age group. Around 43 per cent of them say they expect to bet more frequently during the tournament. This level of intention is significantly higher than that observed in other age groups.  

The gap becomes particularly evident among older people. Among those aged 65 and over, only 4 per cent say they expect to increase their betting activity during the competition.   

This trend is not limited to the frequency of bets; it also applies to the amounts planned. Those aged 25–34 expect to place the highest average stake, at 16.56 pounds per bet. By way of comparison, the overall average stands at 9.54 pounds.  

London, the UK’s betting capital ahead of the World Cup  

The study also highlights a geographical factor. London appears to be the main hub for World Cup-related betting in the UK. More than half of London bettors – 52 per cent – plan to bet on England’s matches. 

Interest is not limited to the national team. In the British capital, 42 per cent of punters say they plan to place bets on other major fixtures in the tournament. Furthermore, 29 per cent are considering betting on the overall winner of the competition. These figures exceed those seen in other parts of the United Kingdom.  

This concentration in London reflects a particularly high level of engagement. It may also explain why the issue of security is so sensitive there. In the same study, 95 per cent of London bettors say they consider security to be crucial when betting online.  

Convenience over caution?  

When asked what drives them to choose one operator over another, bettors cite convenience first and foremost. It was the top priority for 17 per cent of all respondents. Among young adults, this figure rises to 24 per cent.  

A preference for online betting came next, at 16 per cent. These findings shed light on punters’ behaviour ahead of the World Cup: quick access, ease of use and the digital experience play a central role in choosing a site.  

However, this focus on convenience can create a loophole. A user-friendly site is not necessarily a licensed one. An appealing interface, a quick sign-up process or a prominent promotion may give the impression of reliability without guaranteeing regulatory compliance. 

Security remains a key priority  

The study does not suggest that punters are indifferent to security. On the contrary, 91 per cent of people who bet online say they value a secure experience when placing a bet. Of these, 60 per cent say that security is very important.  

TransUnion advises consumers to check whether the operator is properly licensed by the Gambling Commission. The company also recommends avoiding promotions that seem suspiciously generous, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication and closely monitoring financial and credit statements.  

TransUnion’s warning to punters  

Chad Reimers, Global Vice-President of Fraud Solutions at TransUnion, is urging punters to be extra vigilant against unauthorised and illegal bookmakers.  

“The Football World Cup is one of the biggest betting and social events of the year, and fraudsters know this. Young supporters are the most enthusiastic bettors, but this can lead to increased risk if they do not take the time to check the legitimacy of the provider.”  

TransUnion advises anyone who believes they have been a victim of fraud to report the incident to Action Fraud. The company also urges punters concerned about their gambling behaviour to seek help from GamCare or the National Gambling Helpline. 

How can you avoid illegal gambling sites in Belgium?  

In Belgium, gambling is regulated by the Gaming Commission. Only gamble on sites that hold a licence from the GC. If you accidentally gamble on an illegal site, follow our guide to find out what to do.