Multi-Accounting in Sports Betting Explained: A Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls

Multi-accounting (aka gnoming) is when a player opens several accounts with the same bookmaker. 

It’s a big no-no in the sports betting world because it can be used to unfairly take advantage of bonuses and promotions.

It’s important to note the distinction: while it’s legitimate to have accounts with multiple bookies to shop for the best betting odds, having more than one account with the same bookie at the same time is off-limits.

Why Do Players Create Multi-Accounts?

Here’s a breakdown of why some players feel the need to open multiple betting accounts:

• Dodging Betting Limits: When betting limits cut deep into what you can put down, having a backup account lets you keep playing your game.
• For the Arbitrage: Folks into sniping and bonus farming live and die by that second account. It’s like oxygen to them. 
• When the Main Account Gets Banned: You get booted off? For some, the next move is a clean slate with a brand-new account.
• Forgot Your Login? No Problem: Sometimes, players simply forget their login details and, instead of recovering the account, they opt to create a new one.
• Bonus Hunters are the Most Common Multi-Accounters: Grab a welcome bonus, then use it across different accounts, betting against each other.

How Do Bookmakers Detect Multi-Accounts?

Bookies have sophisticated methods to detect multi-accounts, but they don’t usually share their techniques openly. However, it’s generally about spotting similarities across different accounts:

• Router Data: They can track and compare data from routers to see if multiple accounts are originating from the same device.
• Operating Systems: If the same operating system version is used across different accounts, it raises a red flag.
• IP Addresses: Shared or frequently changing IP addresses can indicate the use of multiple accounts from the same location.
• Device IDs: Each computer or smartphone has a unique ID. If the same ID appears on multiple accounts, it’s a clear sign of multi-accounting.
• Software Usage: Similar software or browser plugins can link different accounts together.

When a bookie detects these similarities, they temporarily block the account. This triggers an identity verification process, during which they review the account’s details to determine if it violates their policies. The final decision depends on the outcome of this investigation.

Multi-Accounting: How Players Hide Their Tracks?

Bettors often create secondary accounts under family members’ or money mules’ names to stay under the radar. Pros take it a step further by purchasing existing betting accounts. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

• VPNs are used to mask IP addresses.
• Separate devices are dedicated for playing on secondary accounts.
• Betting through mobile devices with mobile internet is advantageous due to dynamic IP addresses.
• Accounts are registered to individuals at different addresses to bypass household bonus restrictions.
• Trusted individuals are involved, as access to bank accounts and identity documents may be required.
• Login times, betting patterns, and other activities are varied between accounts to avoid suspicious patterns.

What Are the Penalties for Multi-Accounting?

FAQ