In Belgium, the website 711.be recently obtained a B+ licence. But this success has also attracted unwanted attention. For some time now, a sophisticated strategy has been observed: cybercriminals are exploiting the brand’s reputation to redirect internet users to illegal platforms.
How do hackers operate?
The scam often starts with misleading visuals: the 711.be logo, very similar domain names, pages that mimic the appearance of the official website. Internet users, attracted by the brand, click without suspicion. But when they arrive, they find themselves on platforms that are not approved by the Belgian gaming regulatory authorities. These illegal sites may offer irresistible bonuses or accept dubious payment methods.
This is a classic mechanism in digital piracy: the reversal of trust. Criminals use the reputation of a credible player to elicit the public’s credulity.
Risks for players and for the integrity of the sector
What are the risks for users? First, direct financial losses: promised winnings may never be paid out, or may be blocked by unattainable conditions. Second, the security of personal data: registering on unverified platforms can lead to identity theft, banking information leaks or sensitive data leaks.
But the damage goes beyond the individual. For the legal online gaming sector in Belgium, this impersonation undermines public confidence, weakens licensed operators and promotes an opaque and uncontrollable environment.
How are the authorities responding?
Faced with these abuses, Belgian regulatory bodies are on alert. They are identifying illegal sites, publishing blacklists and encouraging players to check the legitimacy of platforms themselves. The challenge is twofold: combating digital clones and raising public awareness of simple checks (operator’s legal address, Belgian licence, reputation on forums, etc.).
Legal action is currently being taken against those responsible for these fraudulent sites. However, they often hide behind offshore servers and use fictitious or anonymous companies, which complicates legal proceedings.
What can an informed player do?
First and foremost, make it a habit to check:
- Check that the site does indeed have an active Belgian licence;
- Check the operator’s identity (official address, full legal information);
- Read the withdrawal conditions (clear policy, realistic timeframes);
- Check reviews from other players or on specialist forums;
- Never pay using untraceable or unreliable methods.
If a player has any doubts, they can contact the relevant Belgian authorities or report the suspicious site for investigation.
The exploitation of the 711.be brand by hackers to promote illegal sites is an insidious scam that plays on trust. It is essential that players develop a critical mindset and that the authorities strengthen their monitoring and sanctioning mechanisms.