Backup address: what to do if the site won't open

Sometimes an operator's address stops opening for a while — for technical reasons, regional restrictions or blocking. That is when “mirrors”, or backup addresses, appear online. Some belong to the operator; others are fakes built to collect logins and passwords.

This page explains how to act safely, not how to get around restrictions.

Signs of a fake

If in doubt, do not enter anything. Open the operator's site the way you normally do, or contact support.

Restrictions and the law

If a site is unavailable in your country, the reason may be legal requirements. Getting around restrictions with a VPN can breach the operator's terms and lead to the account being closed and winnings voided. The licence number and the regulator are normally shown in the operator's footer and terms. Look the operator up in that regulator's public register, check that the licence is active and that the company name in the register matches the company named in the terms. Whether online gambling is allowed where you live is decided by local law, not by the operator.

The catalogue on a backup address

A genuine backup address shows the same account, the same balance and the same game lobby. If the games look different, the information panel is missing or the balance does not match, close the page. Game settings should be identical to the main address, because they come from the operator's account configuration.

Why addresses change

Operators sometimes change domains for technical, legal or branding reasons. A legitimate operator announces it in the account or by email and keeps the same account. If a “new address” asks you to register again or to deposit in order to “unlock” your account, treat it as a sign of fraud.

Security habits

Turn on two-factor authentication if the operator offers it. Do not reuse the same password on other sites. After logging in from someone else's device, log out and change your password.

If you have already entered your details

Change your password on the genuine site straight away, contact the operator's support, and if you entered card details, call your bank. On contacting support, see support and contact.

Bookmarks beat search results

The simplest protection is a bookmark saved from the genuine address. Search results and adverts can show look-alike sites, especially when the main address is down. If you use the mobile shortcut, create it from the bookmarked address, not from a link someone sent you.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell who owns a backup address?
Compare the account and balance with the main address and check the operator in the regulator's public register.
How do I know a link is genuine?
Open it the usual way, compare account and balance, and do not enter details if in doubt.
Can I use a VPN?
It may breach the operator's terms and lead to account closure.
Is the balance the same on a backup address?
On a genuine one, yes — it is the same account.
Open the games at the operator