SBR review: BetUS

BetUS Sportsbook dispute, SBR Industry News

Sportsbook Review.com news anchor Natalie Rydstrom and dispute mediator Justin7 combine to deliver an SBR industry news update for Tuesday, November 20th, 2012. A BetUS Sportsbook dispute is discussed as well as other items from the SBR news bag.  | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook suspends customer's account

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player submits a sportsbook dispute. The player tells SBR that he has a balance of $3,305. The player has wagered with BetUS for two months. The player claims he was referred to BetUS by a friend that allegedly has a debt with the sportsbook. SBR is following up on this case.

BetUS voids sportsbook freeplay winnings

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player submits a sportsbook complaint. The player deposited $1,000 to BetUS, received a matching $1,000 freeplay and proceeded to place straight bets and parlays on soccer. On 8/15, BetUS suspended his account and notified the player that his account was closed for non-recreational play.  | Read more

BetUS, Unibet, YouWin and more sportsbook news

SBR analyst Natalie is joined by dispute analyst Justin in today's SBR Industry News video. The pair discuss the recent Bet770 bonus case resolutions, as well as outstanding sportsbook disputes against BetUS, Unibet, YouWin, and BetAtHome. Players with video feedback or commentary should write to VideoNews@SportsbookReview.com.  | Read more

BetUS sportsbook bonus dispute

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player has filed an SBR complaint. The player states that he deposited $1,000, received a $300 freeplay and proceeded to place four winning bets, including winning his freeplay. The player's balance was increased to $1,680. After one day, BetUS closed the player's account stating he was not a "leisure" gambler.  | Read more

BetUS payout, Bet770 bonus complaints and more

SBR newswoman Natalie delivers a sportsbook industry news update. Natalie is joined later in the program by seasoned dispute expert and legal mind Justin7. Covered in today's program are updates on BetUS, Bet770, BetAtHome, Bovada, as well as a peek into Justin's sportsbook dispute case-load.  | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook dispute closed

The BetUS (SBR rating D+) player from SBR's June 12th report has been paid. The player claimed that he had difficulty making a withdrawal. He deposited $1,000 in April 2012, and later increased his balance to $2,300 after completing rollover requirements. The player shared the good news via a post in the SBR Sportsbook & Industry section.  | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook player dispute

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player submits an account dispute. The player deposited $1,000 at the start of April 2012, accepted an unspecified bonus and fulfilled his obligations, increasing his balance to $2,300. The player claims to have phoned BetUS multiple times inquiring on receiving a payout.  | Read more

BetUS bonus dispute

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) submits a bonus complaint. The player tells SBR that he signed up, deposited $2,000 and took a starter bonus. He claims that after a period of successful play, BetUS closed his account and informed him that he was considered a non-recreational bettor. The player claims that the amount the sportsbook agreed to pay him was approximately $1,500 less than what he expected. The player does not know exactly how much left in bonus rollover he has as he is shut off from his account. SBR is following up on this complaint.

BetUS payment complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player writes in with a payment dispute. A player requested a withdrawal of $300 on January 4th, 2012. He tells SBR that after one week, the funds were still in his account. The player was then given a time-frame of two to three weeks. The player states that each time he contacts BetUS a different answer is given. The player's payment has still not been received. SBR is following up on this sportsbook dispute.

BetUS bonus dispute resolved; new complaint submitted

BetUS (SBR rating D+) has credited $350 to the player whose bonus winnings were confiscated, from SBR's report on January 30th, 2012. The player was labeled non-recreational and had only $383 refunded from an $1,100 balance. SBR spoke with BetUS to discuss proration of the player's bonus winnings. BetUS reopened the player's account and credited $350. The player is free to request a withdrawal. SBR considers this dispute fairly resolved.

A BetUS player has filed a sportsbook complaint. A player tells SBR that he requested approximately $400 more than five weeks ago, and has yet to be paid. SBR is following up on this player dispute.

BetUS players with payout complaints are asked to submit a sportsbook complaint form, or dial 1-830-255-4677 during normal business hours to speak with a Sportsbook Review dispute analyst.

BetUS balance confiscation report

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player claims his winnings have been confiscated. The player wrote SBR stating that he has been labeled a "non-recreational bettor". The player's balance was $1,100, and he claims he has been offered to receive only $383. The player states that his balance was built through normal play. SBR is following up on this BetUS sportsbook complaint.

Update: BetUS management states that the player's account was closed for steam play, and the funds confiscated were freeplay winnings. SBR is following up with BetUS to discuss proration.

BetUS player claims no payment since September

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player that requested a $1,000 payment in September claims he still has not been paid. The player tells SBR that his first payout request failed and that BetUS' makeup payment was also botched. The player believes he will not be paid and has called BetUS a scam in a letter to SBR.  This is the third payment complaint of this kind in the last four weeks. SBR is following up on the player's sportsbook complaint.

BetUS sportsbook payment complaint

A BetUs (SBR rating D+) player tells SBR that he requested a withdrawal of $800 on October 2nd, 2011. After receiving the payment from BetUS, the player tells Sportsbook Review that a banking error caused the payment to fail. The player contacted BetUS management who provided instructions for the player to document the botched withdrawal. As of December 7th, payment has not been rendered again. SBR is following up on this sportsbook complaint.

On November 29th, 2011, SBR reported that a BetUS sportsbook player hasn't been paid since fall.

BetUS Sportsbook players with grievances should file a sportsbook complaint form. Alternatively, players may submit feedback by writing to help@sportsbookreview.com.

BetUS Sportsbook player hasn't been paid since fall

 
A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player tells SBR that he asked for a $5,000 payment ($2,000 check + $3,000 via a plastic method) on September 18th, 2011. On September 29th, the player asked for an update on his withdrawal status and was told that he was actually sent two checks for $5,000 total. The player followed up again after October 13th and was informed that the checks would be cancelled and that his funds would be placed back into his gaming account. After five days of the funds not being credited to his account, the player says he phoned into BetUS and learned that the time-frame for having the funds credited to him increased to 30 days. After 35 more days passed, the player called BetUS back and was informed that the third party funds processor had not completed his request and that he should call back for updates after additional time passes.

SBR is following up on this sportsbook dispute. | BetUS Sportsbook news  | Read more

BetUS payout dispute

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player submits a payout complaint. The player tells SBR that on October 6th he requested a withdrawal of $1,955. The payment arrived on October 24th, 2011 but was rejected by the player's bank. Following industry standard, BetUS requested that the player provide proof of the failed payment. After obliging BetUS' request, the player was told that the sportsbook needed to perform a payout trace and that it could take up to ten days. BetUS informed the player on November 8th that they needed to place a stop on the payment and that it could be up to 30 days before the player can receive his funds.

While BetUS initially approached this payment dispute within the accepted industry standard, BetUS veered off course by suggesting that a stop-pay would need to be placed on an already failed payment. The player would have no way to actually redeem payment by using what he was sent as a financial instrument; therefore after complying with BetUS' requests, payout accommodations should be made.

BetUS Sportsbook players with grievances should file a sportsbook complaint form. Alternatively, players may submit feedback by writing to help@sportsbookreview.com.

BetUS cheats player on halftime wager

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player submits a detailed wagering complaint. The player has shared evidence with Sportsbook Review which suggests deceptive practices on the part of BetUS, with respect to a halftime football wager. The player wanted to make a second half wager on the Kansas City Chiefs vs San Diego Chargers match on Sunday, September 25th.

The line offered by BetUS was listed as San Diego -7. After attempting to place the bet, a popup appeared indicating that the line had changed.  Not thinking anything of it, the player went back to view the line again, refreshed the page and was surprised to see the line still at San Diego -7. The player hard refreshed his browser, and again attempted to place a wager on San Diego -7, and again was greeted by a popup window disallowing the wager due to a line change. After refreshing the page once more, the player decided to enter a $5 test wager on Kansas City to see if that wager would be accepted. The player reports that BetUS accepted the wager at +7 for Kansas City, without any notification of a line change. He then immediately refreshed his page and attempted to place a bet on San Diego at -7. The player reports that again, the BetUS software indicated that the line had changed. The player repeated this cycle multiple times, placing a total of four bets on Kansas City at +7, taking screenshots of each wager. | Discuss BetUS sportsbook

Sportsbook Review's dispute analyst "Justin7" posted a video summary of BetUS' tactics:

NorthBet added to sportsbook ratings guide

NorthBet.com (SBR rating C-) is an invite-only sportsbook located in San Jose, Costa Rica. SBR confirmed that a number of former BetUS (SBR rating D+) managers are behind the operation. Earlier this year, NorthBet paid $15,000 to a player that allegedly forged a cash-transfer receipt by increasing the amount one zero. NorthBet communicated with SportsbookReview throughout the dispute. The decision to pay the player vice refunding the actual deposit was made to avoid any unwanted press while the sportsbook was in its infancy, and due to the player legitimately increasing the balance credited via his casino play. NorthBet claims to be a stand-alone company that operates a niche business model, with plans to expand its offerings to include fantasy football for customers, as well as a dedicated mobile platform aimed at the latest smart phone browsers. NorthBet's marketing team operates out of Montreal, Canada. NorthBet only accepts US based registrations.

NorthBet players with feedback are asked to write to help@sportsbookreview.com. As with all new online sportsbooks, players are advised to exercise caution. Many sportsbooks run -EV promotions to drum up business and get players to bet on their NFL picks at the start of football season, and could potentially flat-line without adequate risk management precautions.

NorthBet has been added to the SBR sportsbook ratings guide at C-. SBR will update this mini-review page as any relevant player feedback or complaints are submitted.
 | Read more

BetUS player submits withdrawal complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player tells Sportsbook Review that he requested an $1,137 payout on July 18th, and has yet to receive his funds. The payment method the player was slated to receive carried a ten business day time-frame. After faxing in account information after the payment window passed, the player was told the delay was caused by "new payment methods" that are being tried out prior to the upcoming football season. SBR is following up on this sportsbook complaint.

BetUS player payout complaint

A BetUS player submits a payout complaint. The BetUS player tells SBR that he requested a $360 payout on April 20th, 2011, and has not received his funds. The player was allegedly quoted a 30 business day time-frame to receive the funds. After following up with BetUS, the player claims that he was told it is in the accounting department's hands. SBR is following up on this sportsbook complaint.

On May 24th, 2011, SBR reported that a BetUS player was paid following a complaint filed two weeks prior. The player in that withdrawal complaint requested a $1,935 payout on April 14th and was given a 7 to 10 business day time-frame to receive his funds. After obliging the sportsbook's requests to produce documents confirming his identity, the player confirmed receiving payment within two weeks of filing his complaint with Sportsbook Review.  | Read more

BetUS complaint update, new sportsbook complaint

The BetUS (SBR rating D+) player from SBR's May 12th sportsbook report has been paid. | New BetUS sportsbook complaint
 | Read more

BetUS account complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player claims that he deposited $150 to place a wager. After winning the wager, the player discovered his account was suspended. The player claims that BetUS informed him that his deposit would be refunded. SBR is investigating this sportsbook complaint.

BetUS player submits payout complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player requested a $1,935 payout on April 14th. The funds were removed from his account, and the player was led to believe that he would be paid in 7 to 10 business days. After that time-frame passed, the player became nervous and raised a number of inquiries with BetUS. | BetUS payout dispute  | Read more

BetUS withdrawal complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player requested a $550 payout on March 2nd. BetUS quoted a 7-10 business day time-frame for the funds to be received.  The player has not been paid...read more.  | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook, payout complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) payout complaint has been reported. On February 7th, 2011, a BetUS player requested a $500 withdrawal. The player was told to expect his funds to hit his bank account in 7-10 business days. After the quoted time-frame passed, the player says BetUS asked him provide a bank statement to prove that the withdrawal was not paid. The player says he obliged this request and has still not received his funds. SBR is investigating this payout complaint. | BetUS recent history  | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook complaint update

BetUS Sportsbook (SBR rating D+) has addressed the payment complaint reported by SBR on January 2nd. In that complaint, a player reported difficulty withdrawing $3,000 from BetUS. The player states that in early November, BetUS canceled his payout request stating that he may only ask to receive $1,000 per each request. BetUS has addressed the complaint. | BetUS Sportsbook response
 | Read more

BetUS player payout complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player tells SBR that he has been waiting for a $3,000 payout since the first week of November. The player claims that BetUS placed the funds back into his account, at which point he was allegedly told he could only request $1,000 at a time. SBR is following up on this dispute.

BetUS player teaser dispute

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player risked $5,000 to win $3,333 on a 4-team, 13 point NFL teaser. The teaser included the canceled Vikings/Eagles game. BetUS has no payout for this teaser if it reduces to a 3-teamer due to a canceled or postponed game. The applicable industry standard for an unreduceable special teaser is that the entire bet would be no-actioned in the event of a canceled game. BetUS instead graded the player's teaser a loss, as one of the player's legs did not win. Due to the cancelation of the Vikings/Eagles game, the player could not win the teaser, but could lose. SBR is discussing this dispute with BetUS.

BetUS player submits withdrawal complaint

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player claims he has not been paid $999 from a withdrawal requested two months ago. The player states the funds were requested from BetUS via bank wire, and carried an up to 10 business day time-frame. SBR is confirming the dispute.

BetUS bonus dispute update

BetUS (SBR rating D+) bonus dispute update. On April 14th, SBR reported that a player was limited to $100 maximum wagers with a $45,542 rollover. The player confirmed today that BetUS paid his $5,462 balance.

BetUS confiscates $2805 in player's winnings

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player states that he had $2,805.70 in winnings confiscated. On October 29th, the player says he won a Pick-4 racebook wager on the Meadowlands track. The wager paid $2905.70. After being credited with the win, his account was locked. The player says he called BetUS and spoke to a supervisor named Mike, who allegedly informed him that he was warned not to bet "those tracks". The BetUS supervisor credited him with $100 from the win, and refused to reinstate the rest of his winnings. SBR is following up on this dispute.

BetUS bonus dispute reaches SBR mailbox

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) bonus dispute has been filed. A player deposited $5000 to BetUS in September, receiving a $2500 freeplay bonus that carried a $65,000 rollover. The player won approximately $2500 with his freeplays. After the player completed more than 60% of his wagering requirement, he states that BetUS closed his account and confiscated $2500, rather than pro-rating any of his bonus. SBR is following up on this dispute with BetUS.

BetUS player reports withdrawal issue

A BetUS (SBR rating D+) player says that a check for $1040.60 bounced. The player states that on 11/2 he deposited the check, and that on 11/15 the amount was reversed. He then sent a copy of the bounced check plus the deposit slip to BetUS. The player says that BetUS then told him it would take a week to confirm the check's status, despite receiving the scans from the player. SBR is following up on this complaint.

Scam Alert: BetUSASports offers sportsbook signup bonus

BetUSASports (SBR rating F) is offering a 20% cash signup bonus. BetUSASports is operated by the same manager behind Bet911 (SBR rating F). Bet911 was downgraded to F on May 6th after its public admission that players would not be paid their balances unless the sportsbook found a buyer. Bet911 and BetUSASports both continue to operate and seek new deposits. Players are advised to avoid BetUSASports and Bet911 at all costs. | Full Sportsbook Scam report  | Read more

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSASports - SBR initiates rating coverage at F

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA BetUSASports - SBR initiates rating coverage at F

Scam Alert: Bet911 operating as BetUSASports

Bet911 (SBR rating F) has opened a new domain, BetUSASports, attempting to lure in depositors for football season. Bet911 was downgraded to F on May 6th by SBR after its admission that it could not pay players and that the sportsbook would search for a buyer. Even following the public acknowledgement of insolvency, Bet911 continued to update its signup bonus structure hoping to bring in new deposits. BetUSASports has been added to the SBR sportsbook blacklist at F. | BetUSASports forum discussion

BetUS freeplay complaint update

On August 24th, SBR reported that BetUS reinstated a player's freeplay winnings who had his account closed for non-recreational play. BetUS returned $1,350 to the player's account but no longer wished to accept his business. SBR facilitated discussion between both sides where an agreement was ultimately reached to pay the player $1,000 and close his account. The player was not under durress when making the agreement and considered the deal to be fair as he would not be required to rollover his bonus with paltry limits.

Brobury Sportsbook adds SBR Feedback form to website; upgraded to B-

Brobury Sportsbook players continue to provide postive feedback since the sportsbook was last upgraded in March of this year. The sportsbook remains in good standing and along with, BetUSA (SBR rating B-), is an alternative for players that are fond of the Sportsbook.com platform but adverse to risk. BroburySports  is a medium sized sportsbook running on the Sportsbook.com platform. Brobury management has agreed to SBR arbitration and has placed the SBR sportsbook complaint form directly on their contact us page. Confidence in player feedback, which SBR will use for future evaluations, is a positive sign. Brobury is located in Costa Rica and uses World Gaming software.

BetUS confiscates $5,274 from winning bettor

BetUS (SBR rating D+) has confiscated $5,274 from a winning bettor. The player deposited a total of $4,993 to BetUS and increased his balance to $27,796. BetUS subtracted $5,274 from his balance claiming that the winnings were derived from correlated parlay bets. BetUS tells SBR that losing bets were subtracted from wins of other parlays, defending their confiscation by claiming the player was not being freerolled. BetUS' software has not been modified to automatically prevent wagers with X% correlation, despite the functionality being a common gaming software configuration.

BetUS player: [quote]I deposited money with Betus.com and placed wagers, many of them, and all was well, and for the most part I did well. After a while I was cut back to smaller limits on some wagers, but maintained the account and continued playing. I was then cut off from playing completely, and while I did not agree with the decision, there really was nothing I could do about it, so I requested to be paid out. Several checks did come as indicated, but then I got one check for an odd amount, then no checks for a while, despite still being owed a good deal of money. I called and called them, consistently getting the run around for two weeks, and finally got someone willing/knowledgeable enough to answer my questions. I was then told that "several of the winning bets placed were illegal, and I would not be paid for them, as they were correlated Nascar parlays." I of course was stunned, could not see how they could not pay me for a bet they accepted.[/quote]
Read BetUS statement
 | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook: Scam alert

BetUS (SBR rating D+) sportsbook confiscates winnings again. One day after BetUS credited a player whose bonus winnings were confiscated, a new complaint has been reported by a player who read SBR's BetUS review.

This player deposited $1000 for a 100% freeplay bonus. The promo required a 12X rollover and 60 day hold. His first bet risked his entire freeplay on an MLB wager with +140 odds. After winning his first bet, he increased his balance to $2950 before going all-in on a -150 MLB moneyline. As that bet was pending, the player discovered he could no longer access his account so he proceeded to contact customer service via telephone. He was allegedly informed that pending the settlement of his wager that his account would be closed due to non-recreational play. His bet won and brought his account balance up to $4,915. After one week the player states he was paid only $3516 by BetUS; minus his $1,400 in freeplay winnings. The player claims BetUS told him he was not entitled to these winnings as his rollover hadn't been filled. | Read Full BetUS report
 | Read more

BetUS Sportsbook reviews confiscation claim; credits bettor

BetUS Sportsbook (SBR rating D+) has decided to credit the player from SBR's sportsbook confiscation report. BetUS initially seized $1,350 in freeplay winnings from a player that made a $1000 deposit for a 100% freeplay. The player risked the entirety of his freeplay on Kansas City +135. After winning the bet, his account was closed due to "non-recreational" play and BetUS confiscated the freeplay winnings.  | Read more

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS downgraded from C to D+

BetUS sportsbook complaints update

BetUS has accumulated a number of complaints in the past year from winning players. Despite its increase in business and the addition of staff, BetUS has not ceased employing its unfair tactics toward winning sports bettors. The following report documents 5 unresolved BetUS complaints.

BetUS has been downgraded to D+. | Read full BetUS report

BetUS scam video

BetUS not honoring freeplay winnings?

A BetUS (SBR rating C) player deposited $1,000 via Moneybookers on August 11th. He accepted a $1,000 freeplay which carried a 6X rollover and a 60 day hold. His first wager risked his entire freeplay on Kansas City +1.5 at the price of +135. After winning that wager and increasing his balance by $1,350, BetUS closed the account. The player states that he was told that BetUS caters only to recreational players. To date the player has not confirmed receiving his deposit back. BetUS has not returned communication with SBR regarding the complaint.

In mid-March, a player had $6000 confiscated by BetUS. BetUS originally claimed the player was part of a syndicate, then later said that the winnings were from illegal correlated parlays. BetUS offered no proof of their claim.

BetUS (SBR rating C) Steals $6,000?

BetUS (SBR rating C) has seized $6,000 from a player's balance due to correlated parlay wagers. On July 20th, the player wrote to SBR stating that his account was closed in April with a balance of roughly $16,000. BetUS investigated the player for "syndicate wagering" while his account was frozen, but ultimately concluded the player was not acting in concert with other account holders. BetUS states that it does not allow correlated parlays, and docked the player's balance $6,000.

BetUS:[quote]We did freeze the funds won from correlated parlays and sent him the remainder of his balance, per his request. Of course, we do have a correlated parlay rule on our Ts&Cs[/quote]
SBR reviewed the BetUS terms and conditions page and found only the following rule, which does not specifically mention correlated parlays:

[quote]Multiple wagers/parlays/if bets are not accepted where the outcome of  one part of the wager contributes to the outcome of another.[/quote]
In addition to the ambiguity of the printed rule, which could apply to every parlay wager, the BetUS software does not prevent these bets from being accepted. The complaint is similar to the Sportsbook.com (SBR rating D-) confiscations, where players had thousands in winnings voided after placing wagers on correlated parlays. SBR is discussing the situation with BetUS.

BetUS excludes wagers from rollover

A BetUS (SBR rating C) bonus complaint has been reported. A player deposited $1000 in December and wagered on the LA Lakers to win the NBA Championship. He received $200 in freeplay for his deposit, which he lost. The offer held a 6 time rollover. After receiving his winnings from the Lakers bet, he began betting both sides of each wager to more quickly clear through rollover and to secure some profits from his future bet. BetUS initially told the player only one side of these wagers would count toward rollover, before allegedly telling him in a follow-up phone call he made to inquire on his rollover completion that no wagers would count toward rollover if both sides were taken. BetUS has no posted rule on the subject. On April 29th BetUS received a similar complaint of not counting certain wagers toward rollover. SBR is investigating the complaint.

BetUS excludes wagers from sportsbook bonus rollover

A BetUS (SBR rating C) bonus complaint has been reported. In January of 2010 a player deposited $2000 with BetUS in exchange for a $700 free-play bonus with a 6 time rollover. After thinking he had cleared the rollover, BetUS instead stated that all wagers placed on non-major soccer leagues would not count toward rollover. Following SBR's inquiry, BetUS stated that the policy was outlined under their free-play wagering rules page. SBR examined the page and found that the only rollover provision was regarding MLB wagers. The page lists no rollover exemption for non-major soccer leagues. Sportsbooks must explicitly spell out which leagues or bet types will not count toward fulfilling rollover; in this case BetUS has not done so. SBR is asking BetUS to honor all soccer wagers placed and to update its free-play page with specific rollover terms.

BetUS gives ultimatum to player in bonus dispute case

On February 24th SBR reported on a BetUS (SBR rating C) player that was limited to $100 bets while having a rollover of $45,542. SBR has asked BetUS to either increase the players limits on major sports, or allow the player to withdrawal and close the account. On October 1st, the player funded $8700 and received a $3480 freeplay. After clearing nearly $40,000 in rollover he was eventually limited due to what BetUS considered non-recreational play.

BetUS has given the player the following ultimatum: [quote]1. You can stay and complete the initial rollover at a ($100) per wager. 2. You can forfeit the $4797 you have won from your free play and cash out the remaining balance. Please let us know which one is suitable for you; [/quote]

BetUS bonus complaint

BetUS (SBR rating C) limited a player that had $97,740 remaining in rollover to $50 maximum bets. The player deposited $8700 in exchange for a $3480 freeplay bonus. BetUS initially claimed that the player's wagers were limited to $500, the player provided SBR a screenshot showing a $50 maximum. BetUS did not dispute the accuracy of the screenshot. BetUS agreed only to allow the player to phone in bets up to $500. As of February 1st the player has $45,542 remaining in uncleared rollover.
*editor's correction - The player cleared more than half of his rollover before being limited.

SBR upgrades BetUs from C- to C

The upgrade is largely attributed to the addition of former Sportbet (SBR rating B+) General Manager Jake Slater. Mr. Slater, now manager of BetUs customer service, has assisted SBR readers with complaints, provided explanation for decisions and helped to amicably resolve disputes.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS upgraded from C- to C

John Morrison allegedly defrauds player out of £8000

John Morrison, the tout popular for his "John Morrison Chase Betting System" which drew immense criticism for his collobaration with BetUS (SBR rating C-) to deal players off-market lines, is now being accused of defrauding a player out of £8000. The player states that John Morrison promised to invest the money into his sports betting system in exchange for 10% of the winnings. Once the check was cashed, John Morrison stopped replying to the players emails and failed to honor his side of the bargain. Players are advised to exercise extreme caution before sending money to "stake" anyone in a sports betting arrangement.

SBRforum's Justin7 weighs in on the issue here:

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA upgraded from C+ to B-

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA upgraded from C+ to B-

Sports Betting & Handicapper Scam : SBR investigates

Players report BetUS and Tout collaborating on Scam: SBR investigates
Sportsbettingchamp.com,  a website promoting pro capper, John Morrison and the "John Morrison Chase Betting System”, is working with BetUS (SBR rating C-) to scam players.

How the scam works: When players sign up with BetUS through the Sportsbettingchamp.com website, BetUS identifies that player as a “Chase system” referral. When that player wants to make a play released by the tout, BetUS deals a unique, higher-priced line on that game for that specific player. It is similar to a grocery store changing price tags after they find out what you were sent to purchase.

For example, on March 23, 2009, the “Chase system” told the players to bet on the Los Angeles Clippers. BetUS and most books were offering a spread of +15 for this game. Most BetUS players, including those referred to BetUS through other professional handicapper websites received the fair line of +15. Players who were referred to BetUS from the Sportsbettingchamp's website were offered a line of +13.5.

Other recent examples of dealing inflated lines only to the tout’s subscribers include:
March 7, 2009: Golden State Warriors +6 (vs +8)
March 3, 2009: Toronto Raptors +6.5 (vs +8)
March 1, 2009: Toronto Raptors +4.5 (vs +6)
February 24, 2009: Charlotte Hornets +5.5 (vs +7)

In every case, the alternate line is only on games released by the tout, and always hurts the player following paying for the pick. The BetUs customer essentially pays much more than he or she realizes.  BetUS’s tactic of moving the line against these players means that instead of charging the normal -110 for these wagers, BetUS is effectively charging these players -140 – four times the usual bookmaker commission.

Players are advised to use caution following any tout that suggests you use a particular sportsbook. SBR has received many complaints over the years involving touts that gain the bettor's confidence before taking part in various sportsbook scams.

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA downgraded from B- to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA downgraded from B- to C+

BetUSA downgraded from B- to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS upgraded from  D+ to C-

Question from the SBR mailbag

SBR mailbag:

Q: SBR, I have gotten two copies of InsidersBettingDigest. It has BetUs as its sportsbook of the year and backs them financialy. They say "This year there is Only One Sportsbook That We Are 100% Confident In Recommending. As proof of our confidence in this sportsbook, we will be extending the Insiders’ Betting Digest Guarantee and financially stand behind our pick, good for up to $100,000 against non-payment due to lack of funds or business failure" Is this magazine for real? Thanks Dan
A: Hi Dan, Insiders Betting Digest has been giving BetUs that "award" for at least four years. The mag is actually owned by BetUS marketing. Before BetUs consolidated its sister books under BetUS.com, it had a Top 4 list of BetUs, SportsGambling, BetReduction and OmniSports. You were rightfully skeptical. BetUS is currently rated D+

Player files $500,000 complaint against BetRoyal (SBR rating D-)

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS <a class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/betusa">BetUSA</a>&nbsp;upgraded from C+ to B-

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA <a class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/betusa">BetUSA</a>&nbsp;upgraded from C+ to B-

BetUS (SBR rating D) sportsbook pays player full $18,300

BetUS (SBR rating D) pays player full $18,300 after telling him in April that his winnings were confiscated. | Original 5/7/2008 report  | Forum discussion

BetUS (SBR rating D+) informs player of $18,300 confiscation

SBR comments on upgrades for Sportsbetting.com, BetUSA and Linesmaker

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA upgraded from C to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA upgraded from C to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA raised from C- to C

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA raised from C- to C

Jazette sportsbooks downgraded from D+ to D-

Sportsbetting.com will not take part in Sportsbook.com parlay scam

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA upgraded from D+ to C-

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA upgraded from D+ to C-

BetUSA agrees to pay correlated parlay winnings

SBR’s Sports Betting Rules Monitor update

Coral (SBR rating A-) adds notice that it will now grade all cricket bets that it has not offered a price for the tie or draw as no-action (voided wager).
GamblersPalace (SBR rating C)  & Skytower (SBR rating C) states that it reserves the right to require users to leave bonus and deposited funds in the account for 30 days before withdrawing.

BetOnline (SBR rating A-) adds statement regarding the voiding of winnings from free-play wagers where the bettor bets on both sides of the same game.

IASbet (SBR rating B) revamps rules pages. IAS players are advised to review this page here for information relevant to his or her betting habits.
InstantActionSports (SBR rating C-) changes house limits.

BetUSA (SBR rating D+) changed rules on season win totals for NCAAF from 11 regular season games to 12 regular season games.  Adds rule for baseball props regarding if a game

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUS, Omni &amp; SportsGambling raised from D to D+

Rating Change: Omni

Omni BetUS, Omni &amp; SportsGambling raised from D to D+

Rating Change: NationalSportsGambling

NationalSportsGambling BetUS, Omni &amp; SportsGambling raised from D to D+

BetReduction closes, accounts moved to BetUS.com

Scam sportsbook WorldWager (SBR rating F-) off-line for good?

Winning Copa America quarterfinals wager voided

Sportsbook.com has not fixed wager grading errors

BetUs Sportsbook pays all bettors from updated complaint list

BetUs (SBR rating D) resolves remaining withdrawal complaints
The sportsbook has addressed all pending slow-pay complaints, which at last count included 49 players. Recently paid players, some who have waited over three months, are currently testing BetUs.com with subsequent requests. BetUs credits progress in acquiring processor resources for the wave of successful withdrawals.  | Read more

Sportsbook.com makes wager grading mistake

BetUS.com Sportsbook no longer licensed by Kahnawake Gaming Commision

BetUS Sportsbook hiring clerks in Panama

BetUs Withdrawal

BetUs withdrawal complaints

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA <span id=ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder1_GridView1_ctl03_Label1>BetUSA&nbsp;downgraded from C to D+</span>

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS <span id=ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder1_GridView1_ctl03_Label1>BetUSA&nbsp;downgraded from C to D+</span>

Processing struggle continues for Sportsbook.com Group

Fifteen BetUS slow-pays on file

Fifteen BetUs (SBR rating D) players complain of payout delays; many waiting over one month for withdrawals. The sportsbook has blamed "misprocessed" payouts and processing difficulties but has left most players without a timeframe for when they can expect their funds. Despite the surge in BetUs withdrawal complaints, SBR has confirmed that a few players have received a recent payment.

BetUs has recently moved its servers from Canada to Panama and is rumored to be attempting to find a way to move its entire operation to Panama. Sources in the country suggest the only way the book would be authorized to operate in Panama would be if it joined a preexisting gaming company.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS <a class="ab" href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</a>&nbsp;downgraded from C+ to C

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA <a class="ab" href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</a>&nbsp;downgraded from C+ to C

BetOnUSA and sister books acquired by Jazette Enterprises Ltd.

BetOnUSA (SBR rating D-) and sister books acquired by Jazette Enterprises Limited (D+ rated Sportsbook.com). Sportsbook management tells SBR the BetOnUSA Group (Empire Entertainment Ltd) was purchased last month. All customer service and accounting is now directed to the Sportsbook building in Costa Rica. The purchase brings Sportsbetting.com (SBR rating D-) back to the company and gives Jazette ownership of the World Gaming software code.
JEL states that it will look into no-pay claims against BetOnUSA, including the latest from a player waiting four months for $1,000.16. JEL sportsbooks also have their own no-pay complaints pending. During the migration of SportingbetUSA (SBR rating D+) last October to Jel-owned SuperBook (SBR rating D+) some accounts, balances and pending wagers were lost.

BetUS player complaints of stalled withdrawal

Fourth BetUs (SBR rating D) player complains of stalled withdrawal after the book’s unannounced 12 day "holiday" withdrawal freeze. The no-payout period spanned from December 22nd to January 2nd. SBR has confirmed that some players who waited have been paid after 1/2/07. Those forced to continue to wait have been told that their withdrawal "has not yet been authorized by management." 

Player: I have been waiting for only 1100 dollars payout since December 28, 2006.  I have been told by BETUS that they are still waiting for top management to authorize the payout. I was told that it will be paid out on January 3rd early in the morning.  Then, I was told it will be mailed out Fedex on the fourth.  Today, I was told it should be taken care of today or most likely by next week.  This is so scary.  Is there anything that I can do or is BETUS just a scam.  I hope all other people realize how horrible BETUS is.

BetUs (SBR rating D)

casino player waiting for $30,000 since 12/8/06. BetUs customer service states that the first payment of $10,000 was lost by FedEx and subsequent withdrawal requests must be approved by top management who hasn’t been present for over two weeks. The bettor’s last five online payout request have been canceled.

Request Date Amount Method Status
Dec 18, 2006 01:20 PM $5,000.00 FedEx Cancelled (As per management)
Dec 16, 2006 01:14 PM $4,975.00 FedEx Cancelled (As per management)
Dec 15, 2006 09:52 PM $5,000.00 FedEx Cancelled (As per management)
Dec 14, 2006 05:51 AM $4,975.00 FedEx Cancelled (As per management)
Dec 11, 2006 03:42 AM $5,000.00 FedEx Cancelled (As per management)

BetUS not processing payments until Jan 3

BetUs (SBR rating D)  not processing withdrawals until January 3, 2007 After numerous player complaints to SBR, the sportsbook has confirmed they have told clients that they can not receive payment until 1/3/07. The book blamed the challenges of banking during the holidays and the majoirty of it’s management being away on vacation. BetUS is not alerting new sign-ups of this no-withdrawal 13 day period that began on December 22nd.

Sportsbook Slow-pay Updates:

Some Pointbet (SBR rating D) slow-paid clients report recieving five figure payouts. This week’s BetUs (SBR rating D) and BetOnUSA (SBR rating D) withdrawals issues resolved. FutureBet’s SpyCasino.biz (SBR rating D-) pays owed players.

BetUS players complain of payout times

BetUs (SBR rating D) players complain of one week wait for withdrawal. The sportsbook tells SBR that they are "experiencing delays" on eCheck payouts and are now offering to refund betting accounts at the player’s request. BetUs also states that they expect overdue EFT withdrawals to reach bank accounts by Tuesday. Players may wish to request payment by Neteller.
Player: They told me it was processed on monday and as of friday morning nothing is pending to my checking account. I was frightenened to see their rating on your site. I’m new to online gaming and need your assistance. I repeated the information to the Betus customer service rep so I know theirs no problem with my banking information.

Kahnawake Gaming Commission no longer permitting licensees to take phone wagers.

The KGC’s amendments primarily effect BetUS (SBR rating D) which opened its Canadian office to serve as an inbound call center that would take wagers. The sportsbook may close this office after letting over 100 staff members go. SportsInteraction (SBR rating C-) says that the Commission will soon amend the Regulation Agreement again, to simply prohibit wagering by phone. Sports Interaction plans to offer positions to former BetUS clerks.

Kahnawake’s new Internet-only "Interactive Gaming Regulations"
(a) no licence holder or authorized client provider, including their respective members, shareholders, directors, officers, employees (contractual or otherwise) and agents are permitted to conduct the following activities by way of voice communication with a player, through any device or means:
i. receiving or accepting a bet or wager;
ii. receiving or accepting instructions of any kind in relation to funds held in, or to be deposited to, the player’s account;
iii. providing odds, lines or any other information related to a sporting or other event

SportingBet, SportingbetUSA users complain of deleted bets

Sportingbet (SBR rating D+) and SportingbetUSA (SBR rating D+) users complain of deleted pending future wagers. Prior to Sportingbet transferring account balances to Superbook.com, some bettors reported disappearing pending bets. While management has agreed to reinstate wagers for many of these account holders at sister sportsbooks, reports of canceled bets continue. Players who have had a pending wager canceled at a former Sportingbet property are invited to contact SBR.

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</A> upgraded from C to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</A> upgraded from C to C+

BetUS credits player for teaser loss

BetUs (SBR rating D) credits player for teaser loss after scam attempt fails. Thanks to SBR readers who have contacted BetUs and BetUs promoters to voice their disfavor.

"Dear Mr. Dozer, They gave me the other $100 and i cashed it out immediately. They originally gave me a $100 free bet which I used some of, and so I was actually fair about it when they asked me what it would take to end it all. I would like to thank you for your help and I really appreciate it. Please don’t get confused with them giving back my cash to them being legit however. The only reason they gave me back my money is because of your help and I was smarter than them in catching there lies and using those lies against them."

Posters discuss BetUS rule change

Posters across internet gambling forums discuss BetUs (SBR rating D) teaser rule change scam.

TheRx
at some places any tie gives you a push for the teaser even if the other team loses. It is very important to read the rules at each book, except it seems betus since they change the rules as they go. - Tomorrow’s Newspaper
Eye On Gambling
This is just downright absurd - a sportsbook that changes their rules to stiff a player out of ONE bet. - sean1
Offshore Gambers Digest
how much is the teaser for? Unless it is like a $10,000 teaser, the negative publicity generated from trying to fight this out is not worth it. and there were places that graded a loss + push as a push. Not sure if any do anymore. If the screenshot is legit, player is 100% right. - drunkguy
SBRforum
What a bunch of bull!!! The written rules clearly say it should be a push - Illusion

Sportingbet PLC

sells Sportsbook.com (SBR rating D+) and US-facing business to "existing management team"

Statement: Sportingbet announces that it has sold, on 12 October 2006, its US-facing sports betting and casino business (the “US Operations”) to Jazette Enterprises Limited (“JEL”) (the “Disposal”). Sportingbet received cash consideration of US$1 for the shares and related assets of the US Operations, and has discharged excess liabilities amounting to approximately US$13.2 million. Had the business been closed, the Board estimated that the cost of severance and closure would have amounted to approximately US$14.0 million – a total saving of circa US$27.2 million. Full Statement

The press release suggests that Wallstreet, Aces, and SportingbetUSA (SBR rating D+) will move US players under a different brand, likely Sportsbook.com. Sportingbet Plc has retained ownership of these highly marketable website domains. Paradise Poker will relinquish its share of the US poker market. The poker giant will also be retained by Sportingbet Plc and cease taking deposits from US players at 11:00 a.m tomorrow.

SBR is currently investigating claims that the group has canceled winning future wagers of players who reside in US states that have specific laws against gambling.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/Gambling.net">Gambling.net</A> and <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</A> downgraded from B- to C

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/Gambling.net">Gambling.net</A> and <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</A> downgraded from B- to C

Rating Change: Gambling.net

Gambling.net <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/Gambling.net">Gambling.net</A> and <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/sbr/BetUSA">BetUSA</A> downgraded from B- to C

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

SBR speaks with BetUs (SBR rating D) management who acknowledges editing the site’s rules after player requested a balance credit. BetUs chose to reference a contradicting rule as justification for deducting funds from user’s account and says they will not be returning the player’s money.

BetUs (SBR rating D) changes website&rsquo;s teaser rules after player requests credit

On Sunday, the bettor placed a 2-team teaser. BetUs teaser rule #4 dictated that his stake should be returned to him because one of the teaser legs was a push.

"4) A push or tie in any 2-team regular teaser will result in a push for the whole teaser. Also, any portion of a 2-team teaser is graded No Action, the entire teaser will be graded No Action."

The player spoke with a manager who read a different version of rule #4 which stated the entire teaser would be graded a loss if one of the teaser legs had lost.

Player: I explained to Eric that "Unless the other team is graded as a loss" was not there earlier, and i had proof of this with a screenshot, but he said the reason must be that people in my area aren’t seeing the complete rule and that is why it isn’t showing up. That was a lie
Player screenshot  & Updated rules page 

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/Search/default.aspx?Search=betusa&amp;Area=Site&amp;Submit=Home">BetUSA</A> downgraded from B to B-

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA <A class=ab href="http://www.sportsbookreview.com/Search/default.aspx?Search=betusa&amp;Area=Site&amp;Submit=Home">BetUSA</A> downgraded from B to B-

Sportingbet (SBR rating D+)

Company continues Bait n’ Switch bonus scam.
Sportingbet Plc steals winnings from player, citing a mystery "bonus abuse" rule. SBR has received numerous complaints from players who were attracted to incentives from the many Sportingbet Plc brands, which include Sportsbook.com (SBR rating D+) and SportingbetUSA (SBR rating D+). If the player has accepted bonus offers from the different books and goes on to win, he is susceptible to the confiscation of all funds above the total amount deposited. SBR has contacted Sportingbet Plc on multiple occasions to verify that utilizing more than one site is not a violation of any rules.
SBR poster ’dvorak51’ shares his experience with the Sportingbet Group’s Aces.com (SBR rating D+).

7/5/2006 8:32:38 PM Update: Sportingbet management refunds player’s winnings and adds free-play bonus for inconvenience.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUS (SBR rating D) takes imposter website playdsi.com off-line. The website copied a version of the real Diamond Sportsbook (SBR rating A) which uses the url betdsi.eu. SBR is optimistic that this is a sign the company is moving in a positive and more professional direction. New COO, Kevin King is addressing the final payout complaint from an SBR reader owed $14,000.

BetUs (SBR rating D) management agrees to

take copy-cat site, PlayDSI.com off-line. PlayDSI impersonates A- rated Diamond Sportsbook International (betdsi.eu). The website was tailor made to look like the real DSI, which has since removed its diamond graphic and now lists the brand name simply as, Diamond Sportsbook. BetUs management tells SBR that this is what is left from previous marketing teams and will be removed shortly. Last year the BetUs marketing department removed blog-style websites that linked words such as "Bill Dozer" and "SportsbookReview" to the sportsbook’s website.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUSA(SBR rating B) agrees to pay player for winning wagers totaling $1759.09.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUSA(SBR rating B) cancels client’s pending wagers after closing his account due to ’non-recreational’ play. BetUSA had sent the player an email on 4/27 at 6AM, stating that any wagers placed after that point would be cancelled. The player continued to have full access to his account and made wagers minutes before the start of the mid-day baseball games, claiming he did not check his email. The wagers were cancelled after the games were already in progress. SBR expects BetUSA to honor wagers confirmed by its system.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Sportingbet Plc returns $24,000 confiscated from client in October 2005. Over the course of a year the player had used multiple Sportingbet Plc sites including PlayersOnly(SBR rating D+), LinesMaker(SBR rating D+), SportFanatik(SBR rating D+), SportingBetUSA(SBR rating D+), Aces(SBR rating D+) and Sportsbook.com(SBR rating D+). The amount confiscated was the sum of what the player had earned in bonuses and won overall from the family of sportsbooks. SBT management originally stated that the player was violating the spirit of the bonus although the company’s client support has maintained that utilizing multiple sportsbooks and incentive offers was acceptable. Other Sportingbet players hope to experience the same success in resolving their issue and recovering their funds. SBR is currently speaking with Sportingbet’s corporate office about these matters.

SBR sportsbook tours:

SBR tours BetUs(SBR rating D) Costa Rica offices. The sportsbook is located on the third floor of building 2 of Oficentro La Sabana in San Jose, Costa Rica. View photos here. BetUs’ wagering department operates out of Montreal Canada.

SBR Bill Dozer meets with BetUS(SBR rating D) COO Kevin King

Mr. King has agreed to resolve two player complaints, paying one player $1500 owed from an NFL loss rebate as well as a 2nd player who saw his roll-over requirement double from 5 to 10 times. Mr King states that the book will no longer change wagering requirements and will honor the listed policies and procedures.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS Group downgraded from D+ to D

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUS downgraded from D+ to D as bettors continue to file complaints. Management has not addressed pending issues or its policies toward winning clients as promised. Players have also voiced their displeasure with customer service and misleading bonus offers.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUK - SBR initiates rating at B, Gambling.net upgraded from C to B-, BetUSA upgraded from B- to B

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA BetUK - SBR initiates rating at B, Gambling.net upgraded from C to B-, BetUSA upgraded from B- to B

Rating Change: BetUK

BetUK - SBR initiates rating at B, Gambling.net upgraded from C to B-, BetUSA upgraded from B- to B

Rating Change: Gambling.net

Gambling.net BetUK - SBR initiates rating at B, Gambling.net upgraded from C to B-, BetUSA upgraded from B- to B

SBR Bill Dozer reports: BetUK Acquires BetEuro (SBR rating A-).

All BetEuro accounts have been transferred to BetUK. BetUK is part of Online Management Services which is also the parent company for Gambling.net(SBR rating B-) and BetUSA(SBR rating B). BetUK targets the European market but accepts US players.  The company’s owner, Bill Nevin, tells SBR they will specialize in soccer and in-game wagering. The sportsbook uses Finsoft software under the Sportingbet license.

BetUs new COO Kevin King to discuss payout complaints with Bill Dozer.

Management has assured SBR that remaining complaints will be addressed before the end of the week. Pending issues include a free-play winnings confiscation and a failure to honor NFL losses rebate. Mr. King is also expected to resume discussions regarding an archived $8,000 balance confiscation complaint.

SBR Bill Dozer reports: BetUs(SBR rating D+) Bonus Scams Worsen

A bettor won $1575 from his free-play but was informed he will not have the ability to redeem his winnings per the listed terms. The player was told he must forfeit his winnings or agree to double his roll-over from 5x to 10x with a wagering limit of only $50. The player would be forced to give the book an additional $18,125 in action and make over 456 fifty dollar additional wagers.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUs (SBR rating D+) refuses to honor bonus after six time roll-over was completed. The player has withdrawn his account balance less $1,550, which was the result of his free-play winning wagers.

SBR Bill Dozer reports: BetUs Bait N&rsquo; Switch Bonus Scam

The player completed his six time roll-over on a 50% free-play bonus and asked for a payout. BetUs tells the player that he is classified as a professional bettor and must wager his deposit + bonus amount an additional six times. The player states that he is in need of his funds and must give up the earned funds if the book will not honor its listed terms. The new stipulations would require the account holder to wager as much as $25,000 (BetUs uses the smaller of the risk/win amount to calculate bonuses) prior to being allowed to withdraw. The player was awarded the bonus funds for reloading his account.
This complaint was submitted three days after SBR received a similar complaint from BetUs sister book, Omni Sports(SBR rating D+).

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Omni Sportsbook(SBR rating D+) reverses decision to add wagering requirements to bettor’s winnings before processing additional payouts. This was a common complaint from BetUs and Omni clients in years past. Forcing the player to risk his/her funds is a form of theft.

SBR Bill Dozer reports: BetUs(SBR rating D+) Bait and Switch Bonus? Bettor denied NFL loss rebate.

The player was promised the 10% rebate throughout the football season as he lost $15,000, earning a $1500 free-play. After the NFL season, BetUS confirmed that the player had earned the bonus and assured him that future account activity would not affect his NFL rebate which would be credited before the end of February. The bettor reloaded his account and went on to to win back most of the amount lost during the NFL season. As a result, BetUs closed the betting account, denied the free-play earnings and deleted 25,000 in bonus points which could be redeemed for a free-play.

Player: "I SPECIFICALLY ASKED IF I LOSE MORE THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE MONTH IF WOULD I GET MORE CASH BACK AND HE SAID NO -- IT DOESNT MATTER WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE NOW, ALL THAT MATTERS IS WHAT YOUR ACCOUNT BALANCE WAS RIGHT AFTER SUPERBOWL. Just to confirm that, I called two different clerks the next day and  asked if I were to go on a win streak in the days and weeks after the superbowl, if that would affect my gamblers assurance and they assured me that it would not."

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS upgraded from D- to D+

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Two players claim balances were erased from their sportsbook accounts. A player from Sports.com(SBR rating D+) and another from SportingbetUSA(SBR rating D+), both of the Sportingbet Plc Family, report losing a total of $5084 on wagers they did not place. Customer service told both players that the funds were gambled away on virtual horse racing, a casino game neither bettor has played previously. The first player to experience this problem tells of the book’s apparent unwillingness to address the issue.

"They originally told me it would take 24 hours, then 48 hours, then a week, it has now been 15 days and they still have not given me the IP address of the origin of the disputed wager.  Who benefited from the wager?  sportingbetusa. Who refuses to provide needed information in the investigation of this matter? sportingbetusa. Why won’t they cooperate?  My ISP tells me they should have been able to provide that information within 24 hours.  They did give me the date, time, and time zone, but that is worthless without the IP address. The time zone they gave as the origin of the disputed wager was the Pacific time zone.  I am in Ohio (Eastern).  They know it was not my wager.  I really think they did it themselves."

BetUSA(SBR rating B-)

earns 2nd upgrade in two months. The sportsbook’s management continues to make decisions independant of their service provider, Sportingbet Plc, and assures SBR that they will maintain their player-friendly policies. B- is currently the highest rating that a Sportingbet/World Gaming sportsbook holds.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA upgraded from C+ to B-

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA upgraded from C+ to B-

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUSA (SBR rating C+) becomes first book to reverse managing/hosting company, Sportingbet’s decision to unjustly confiscate player funds. SBR has received many complaints from Sportingbet Plc serviced sites since the 11/4/2005 report. Each Sportingbet site who has an independent general manager has the opportunity to address the situation before receiving Blacklist status.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUs (SBR rating D-) sends $500 check to player owed since 2004.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Third BetUs (SBR rating D-) player comes forward with five figure no-pay claim. In the past 6 months BetUs has paid out over $25,000 to two players who have waited years for their winnings. This player hopes for a similar resolution to his $14,668 complaint which dates back to the fall of 2002.

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA upgraded from C- to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUSA upgraded from C- to C+

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUSA upgraded to C+ after distinguishing itself from the Sportingbet Plc family, to which it belongs. BetUSA’s ownership has proven that it has the ability to act independently of its sister books like PlayersOnly and Sportsbook.com (SBR rating C). The book employs its own customer service staff for advanced player inquiries and management has made decisions on wager grading that have differed from its larger sister books. Recently BetUSA paid players who bet Tiger Woods to win the British Open, while players who wagered with the flagship SBT Plc books saw their winning wagers canceled. BetUSA clients still must deal with the same flawed accounting department that is sometimes responsible for payout delays.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Player and BetUs (SBR rating D-) management agree to settlement arrangement on $25,000 unpaid balance. The final draft of the deal’s terms is slated to reach SBR tomorrow. This three year old case was last referenced on 8/18/05.

Beware of BetUs (SBR rating D-) Marketing SCAM

BetUs attempting to use the reputation of SBR Recommended sportsbook Diamond Sports International / DSI (SBR rating A-) to trick new players into joining their operation. PlayDSI.com is a site owned and operated by the BetUs Group, also known as Little Nasa, which is made to look like the original Diamond Sportsbook complete with a stolen DSI logo and graphics. The phone number on the DSI-ripoff site leads players to the BetUs call center.

Players

confused by magazine scam that pretends to review the “Top Sportsbooks” and “guarantee player funds”. Both the publication and the listed sportsbooks are from the BetUs (SBR rating D-) family of sites.
"I recently received a magazine in the mail called INSIDERS BETTING DIGEST.COM. It has a list of sportsbooks and poker sites they claim that are the best. I hope they check your site before they try their sites because you have rated all their sportsbooks D- and F+. I called one of there top picks because they claim to have the best bonuses, and the person I talked to was trying very hard to have me sign up right then, thats when I knew something wasn’t right. So I looked up all the sites they have listed and there all D- and F+. Maybe you can warn people about this magazine. Thank you"
Read more about these phony review publications.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

SportingbetUSA (SBR rating C) deducts $500 in winnings from customer account. The sportsbook claims the player bet a "bad line" (wrong odds that are the result of a line manager’s mistake) on Tiger Woods to win the British Open, which took place a month earlier. SportingbetUSA has not made an effort to show the player how the line on Tiger Woods was an "obvious error" and has not followed their own rule which is stated below. SBR will continue to speak on the player’s behalf and expects management to rectify or justify these actions.

"Every effort will be made to ensure that all information available on the Internet site is accurate. However, if an error is made in the prices or conditions published on-line, we reserve the right to correct any mistakes and to settle any bets already laid at the correct price."

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUs (SBR rating D-) unwilling to clear $25,000 debt to player. The sportsbook agreed to discuss two claims from players who were cheated out of their funds. These discussions resulted in one player receiving a five figure balance (reported on 6/30/05) and created hope for a 2nd player, whose dispute dates back three years. BetUs’ argument was that this case was mediated by The Shrink, formerly of  TheRX, and that the player had agreed to the result of mediation. The player described a hostage situation where he was forced to agree to a deal in order to receive what was almost 2/3rds of his balance. SBR has contacted The Shrink who stated “ [I] thought that I got the max for player that I could” and went on to say that the player deserved the remainder of his funds. SBR has reviewed this case in detail and agrees that BetUS clearly owes the player the remainder of the account balance, totaling $25,000.

Players reporting getting advertisements from scams attempting to fool players into thinking they are from SBR.

Rule 1) This site, the real SBR, has never sent an email advertisement.
Rule 2) Look for these scams to only recommend one book, their own of course, or books in their family.

Here is partial list of scam sportsbook review type sites:
BetOnSports’s scam review site = www.sportsbookaudit.com ( notice any similarities to the real SBR?)
BetRoyal’s scam review site = www.sportsbookreview.net (familiar website address)
BetUs’s scam review site = www.bestsportsbookreview.com (20+ sites involed in this scam network)
ESB’s scam watchdog site =  www.LVSN.com

Sites are supposedly run by so-called affiliates or advertisers as a cover-up. In fact, they are either run directly by the book or put a fake affiliate between them. Many also give hosting and ad budgets as well as their email lists further proving their ownership or that they approve and support the scams. BetOnSports reportedly directly buys radio advertising for their scam site.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Sportingbet Plc family of sportsbooks refusing to pay players this week. Players file multiple complaints against such books as Sportsbook.com, SportingbetUSA.com and Aces.com, citing that the below notice was first posted today.

"Note: There will be no withdrawals processed the week of Monday July 11th to Friday, July 15th. Withdrawals will resume normal processing July 16th. We apologize for any inconvenience caused."
 
Sportingbet users complain that they were not given any notice that their funds would be inaccessible. Many players will actually be forced to wait until the 18th, due to some banking methods being available for processing only on weekdays. Sportingbet management claims that this freeze on player funds is due to a website upgrade, which suggests players could have been informed well in advance. A likelier reason for this hold on account balances is that Sportingbet recognizes a very slow week in sports and would like to prevent a wave of withdrawal requests that occur when there is little to wager on.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS upgraded from F+ to D-

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUs (SBR rating F+) resolves four year old payout dispute. BetUs mangement and player amicably agree upon five figure settlement. SBR appreciates the efforts of newly acquired manager Mike Foreman. Mike states that the company is willing to address any unresolved complaints from the book’s past. Players with a BetUs complaint or feedback are encouraged to write to Assistance@SportsbookReview.com

An open letter from a player and a message to all that gamble: Be Careful!

I AM WRITING THIS LETTER TO INFORM YOU OF MY ONLINE EXPERIENCE WITH SPORTINGBETUSA. I JOINED THEIR GROUP THREE YEARS AGO AND WAS VERY EXCITED ABOUT ONLINE GAMBLING.       
IN 2.5 YEARS I LOST IN EXCESS OF 100K TO THEM. I BANKRUPTED MY COMPANY MY HOME AND WORSE YET MY SISTER. WHEN I HAD NO ACCESS TO MONEY I  USED HER CREDIT CARDS TO THE TUNE OF 60K DOLLARS. THEY WIILLING TOOK MY DEPOSITS AND HAD NO RESRTICTIONS ON LIMITS OR SECURITY ISSUES (FAXBACK CV2 OR EXPIRATION DATES. ALL OTHER SITES HAD THESE CONTROLS IN PLACE. I HAD THE PLEASURE OF CASHING OUT TWICE IN THAT THREE YEARS. THE FIRST ONE FOR 3500 AND IT TOOK A  MONTH TO RECEIVE FUNDS. THE SECOND TIME I GOT LUCKY IN THER
CASINO FOR 5000 DOLLARS . I REQUESTED THIS CASHOUT THE FIRST WEEK OF DECEMBER.   I IMMEDIATELY GOT A RESPONSE EMAIL FROM MY SPORTSBOOK WHO THEY ONLY DO MANAGERIAL DUTIES FOR. CLAIMING A ROUTINE AUDIT FOR A CASINO THEY ONLY MANAGE. I WAS ALSO TOLD FIREPAY  HAD RETURNED CHECKS. I DID NOT HAVE A CHECKING ACCOUNT AT THAT TIME. I TOLD THEM TAKE ALL DEDUCTIONS  THEY WANTED AND SEND ME THE DIFFERENCE. MY ACCOUNT WAS IMMEDIATELY CLOSED AND NONE OF MY EMAILS WERE RETURNED. GOING TO COURT NEXT WEEK WITH MY SISTER WHO  COURTS DATE NEXT WEEK . PLEASE PUBLISH THIS ARTICLE SO OTHER  PEOPLE WILL NOT MAKE THE SAME MISTAKES I DID.   GR

SBR would suggest all players be aware of the potential damage that gambling can cause.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

Player receives $11,000 bank wire from BetUSA (SBR rating C-). The payout arrives 37 days after initially requested.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUSA (SBR rating C-) tells player they lost his $11,000 bank wire transfer. The player has been waiting over one month for this withdrawal and continues to wait as the book attempts to "trace" these funds. SBR to seek update on progress from management.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

SportsbookReview receives a new batch of complaints against the Sportingbet Group. SportingbetUSA (SBR rating C) continues to delay withdrawal requests by performing account audits. More than a few players have also complained that SportingbetUSA payouts have been delivered by check, despite the fact that they had requested their funds via Neteller. In some countries players are forced to pay large processing fees when cashing these checks. The book has declined player requests to reimburse these costs. These lapses in customer service have resulted in a downgrade of SBTusa from C+ to C.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS SportingbetUSA downgraded from C+ to C

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA SportingbetUSA downgraded from C+ to C

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet SportingbetUSA downgraded from C+ to C

SBR mailbag: Customer Service Complaints

Intertops (SBR rating C+) – Customers complain that Intertops now taking three business days to process Neteller withdrawals. The change from two days was not noted on the website. Players also have reported that the book is not responding to email inquiries.

SportingbetUSA (SBR rating C+) – Player complains about LiveChat service.
“When I was on the live chat with one of their staff members, Frank, I was assured of a 15% immediate bonus within 24hrs. I waited 24hrs to no avail. So I did 3 live chats in 2hrs. The first guy (David) told me it would be credited in minutes. The 2nd guy at first told me it’s 24-48hrs but later corrected himself when I reminded him it is spelt out on his website (within 24hrs). The 3rd guy really dropped the bombshell, said that I need to show more patience and this being a Sunday usually experience heavy traffic and my bonus will take up to 36hrs! What crap, now I know why you guys give them a C+”

BetonUSA (SBR rating D-) – SBR continues to receive a steady flow of complaints.
“Hey Bill, I contacted BetOnUSA last night to see about the status of my Neteller withdrawal. They are completely giving me the run around. Last night I talked to a lady who said it would be processed within 48 hours and then it would take another 48 hours to receive it in my Neteller. That seemed logical as I went back and checked out the withdrawal slip and it said it would take 48 hours to process. Tonight I talked to a guy who basically said that they were sending it in a completely different way then I originally requested it (via Neteller). I told him that it was a mistake and it was supposed to get sent to my Neteller account as I requested. He said that he would change it making it another 48 hour processing wait and 5-7 days to reach my account. Thanks for the help! This will be the last time I deal with a book with this poor a rating.”

Sportsbook.com (SBR rating C) comes clean on their infamous &rsquo;audits&rsquo; that cause unnecessary long payout delays

and announces they will eliminate withdraw audits. Many insiders, including SBR, long suspected the highly unpopular ’audits’ are mainly used as a way of punishing winning players and discouraging withdraws. This procedure has continued to be a drag on the entire Sportingbet group rating, of which Sportsbook.com is the largest member. The group last sported a top 20 sportsbook in 2002 with their second largest member SportingbetUSA, which reached a peak rating of B+.  

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetEmpire (SBR rating F+) management tells SBR that all slow-paid players have been paid in full. The new sportsbook blames an early change in payment processors for the delay. SBR is encouraging players with complaints or positive feedback to write to assistance@sportsbookreview.com. The majority of BetEmpire is owned by BetUS (SBR rating F+).

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

No-pay complaints continue to come from players at scam sportsbooks. BetGateway (SBR rating F) is hoping to stay afloat with a profitable Super Bowl. More players are reporting denied withdrawal requests yet the book continues to offer large bonuses on new deposits. New BetEmpire (SBR rating F-) and sister book WorldWager (SBR rating F-) complaints emerge. Management is attempting to void out winnings on multiple large account balances. They claim that if the betting odds had changed soon after a bet was placed it was the sportsbook’s error and a "bad line" which nullifies the wager. The book is applying this made-up rule to months of graded wagers. One player did report reaching a settlement with WorldWager and has received payment.
Update 2/26/05: BetEmpire management tells SBR that they are no longer involved with WorldWager and that BetEmpire is a seperate operation. BetEmpire has its own mangement team in place but is under the BetUS (SBR rating F+) brand. 

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet SportingbetUSA downgraded from B- to C+

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA SportingbetUSA downgraded from B- to C+

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS SportingbetUSA downgraded from B- to C+

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

BetUS (SBR rating F+), also known as Little Nasa, hires new manager Mike F. BetUS has been the source of many player complaints in the past. Mike aims to improve BetUS and its poor reputation. Players who previously filed BetUS complaints should again contact Bill Dozer at assistance@sportbookreview.com.

SBR mailbag:

This week’s slow-pay complaints come from players with BetCSI (SBR rating F-), BetUs (SBR rating F+). Scam outfit, English Sports Betting (SBR rating F-) clients continue to supply multiple no-pay complaints. Sportsbook.com (SBR rating C) player reports his account is locked due to “random account audit”. Three of the many players owed by Internet1x2 (SBR rating F-) have reported payment in full via bank wire. SBR will continue to pursue and monitor payouts for those seeking withdrawals from Internet1x2.

SBR mailbag recent complaints:

Player reports 2 month no-pay from BetUs (SBR rating F+). Ewinner (SBR rating D-) source of multiple slow-pay complaints. SportsInteraction (SBR rating D) receives multiple complaints regarding slow-pay and customer service. Three Sportsbook.com (SBR rating C-) customers report they are still waiting nearly 2 months for bank wires. Another Internet1x2 (SBR rating F-) victim reports 9 month no-pay. Betsrus (not rated) cold calling players offering 75% bonuses. Players should be cautious of unknown books calling-for-cash.

SBR Bill Dozer reports:

SBR receives influx of Sportingbet PLC sportsbook complaints. Sportfanatik (SBR rating D+) client reports unjust bonus confiscation. Allstar.com (SBR rating C-) player files complaint over missing check. A SportingbetUSA (SBR rating B-) client claims withdrawn funds left his player account but never reached his Neteller account. A 2nd SportingbetUSA player contacts SBR about unjust bonus confiscation. Mysportsbook.com (SBR rating C-) loses multiple bank wires during processing.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS Grande upgraded from B+ to A-, SportingBetUSA upgraded from C+ to B and Sportsbook.com upgraded from D+ to C+

Rating Change: Sportsbook.com

Sportsbook.com Grande upgraded from B+ to A-, SportingBetUSA upgraded from C+ to B and Sportsbook.com upgraded from D+ to C+

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA Grande upgraded from B+ to A-, SportingBetUSA upgraded from C+ to B and Sportsbook.com upgraded from D+ to C+

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet Grande upgraded from B+ to A-, SportingBetUSA upgraded from C+ to B and Sportsbook.com upgraded from D+ to C+

Player files slow pay complaint against SportingBetUSA (SBR Rating C+).

SportingBetUSA C.S. Supervisor Charles says this customer's account and his wife's account are both being audited. Initial deposits have been returned to customer's credit card. SBR to follow up in this process.

SportingbetUSA(SBR rating C+)

Informs SBR and other analysts that recent quarterly profit was no fluke and that restructuring and risk controls implemented last year have paved the way for consecutive quarters of profitability. Common stock shares of Sportingbet have soared a 100% since January 1st.

BetUs

(SBR rating F+) Player complains he can't not get paid from this notorious stiff book

BetOnUSA

(SBR rating D) Messages SBR that they are having temporary problems - Back door login

SportingbetUSA

(SBR rating C-) Once an A rated book -slow pays like this one are now all to common

Sportsbook disputes hit SBR mailbox

Complaints from; Internet1x2(F-), Playerstime(C-), SportingbetUSA(C-), Sportingbet(C-), BetonUSA(D+), WSEX(A-), Sportsbook.com(D+)

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet Sportingbet.com, SportingbetUSA - Upgraded from D+ to C-

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA Sportingbet.com, SportingbetUSA - Upgraded from D+ to C-

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS Sportingbet.com, SportingbetUSA - Upgraded from D+ to C-

Sportsbook media buys

BoDog, BetOnSports, BetUs using players money to fund expensive mass media buys starting 8/18.

Sportingbet shares tumble

Sportingbet shares tumble again - Holding Co. for SportingbetUSA, Sportsbook.com has fallen 70% in past 12 months - nagging customer service complaints possibly indicative of poor management.

BetUS horror stories

Player horror stories continue at BetUs.Com - BetUs.Com principal is now using the identity of Sportsbook Review principal - Players should immediately close all accounts associated with NASA (BetUs.com) and Omni Sports - Long history of scam complaints.

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS BetUs.Com (Little NASA) - Situation critical - Opinion of Sportsbook Review on BetUs.Com

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS SportingbetUSA - Downgraded - removed from the Recommended List - excessive complaints

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA SportingbetUSA - Downgraded - removed from the Recommended List - excessive complaints

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet SportingbetUSA - Downgraded - removed from the Recommended List - excessive complaints

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet SportingbetUSA - Drops out of Sportsbook Review top 10 - CS issues have resulted in a 4 month slide from 5th to 13th - Rio jumps three places

Rating Change: Rio

Rio SportingbetUSA - Drops out of Sportsbook Review top 10 - CS issues have resulted in a 4 month slide from 5th to 13th - Rio jumps three places

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA SportingbetUSA - Drops out of Sportsbook Review top 10 - CS issues have resulted in a 4 month slide from 5th to 13th - Rio jumps three places

Rating Change: AcesCasino

AcesCasino SportingbetUSA - Drops out of Sportsbook Review top 10 - CS issues have resulted in a 4 month slide from 5th to 13th - Rio jumps three places

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS SportingbetUSA - Drops out of Sportsbook Review top 10 - CS issues have resulted in a 4 month slide from 5th to 13th - Rio jumps three places

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS Little NASA-Betus.com - Downgraded BACK to the RUN! List - Sportsbook Review errors in removing NASA off the scam list. Several players are reporting a cheat scam by Little NASA

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS Little NASA-Betus.com Upgraded to the Black List-A book with risk but not enough to justify RUN List rating

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS Sportsbook.com - Upgraded - Removed From the Black List - Agreed to be acquired by SportingbetUSA

Rating Change: Sportsbook.com

Sportsbook.com - Upgraded - Removed From the Black List - Agreed to be acquired by SportingbetUSA

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA Sportsbook.com - Upgraded - Removed From the Black List - Agreed to be acquired by SportingbetUSA

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet Sportsbook.com - Upgraded - Removed From the Black List - Agreed to be acquired by SportingbetUSA

Rating Change: MaximSportingbet

MaximSportingbet SportingbetUSA - Downgraded - Removed from the Recommended List

Rating Change: SportingBetUSA

SportingBetUSA SportingbetUSA - Downgraded - Removed from the Recommended List

Rating Change: BetUS

BetUS SportingbetUSA - Downgraded - Removed from the Recommended List