South Africa's SARGF issues public warning about a misleading support website
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) has issued a warning to the public about a website allegedly misrepresenting ties to the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP). The organisation said the website offering fraudulent responsible gambling services could mislead vulnerable people into paying for gambling support services that should remain free.
The Foundation stated that it has no affiliation with Stop Gambling SA or its affiliated social media platforms that promote paid gambling support services. The SARGF’s warning follows concerns that people seeking assistance for gambling-related harm may mistake the platform for an official NRGP service.
Foundation says NRGP services are free
The Foundation stressed that all NRGP services remain free of charge. These services include counselling, self-exclusion support and assistance with freezing gambling accounts.
“We are deeply concerned by the misrepresentation housed on the website and its related materials as we have not authorised the use of the NRGP name, mandate or contact details by them,” said Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, Executive Director of the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation.
The organisation warned that unauthorised use of the NRGP identity could exploit people seeking urgent support. It also cautioned that such actions could weaken confidence in recognised responsible gambling structures.
“Members of the public should also be aware that services relating to self-exclusion through the NRGP are provided free of charge, and any operator cooling off or account freezing is also provided free of charge by relevant operators. Where a member of the public requests the NRGP to facilitate on their behalf either a cooling-off period or account freezing, we do so in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act,” Simelane-Quntana added.
Efforts are underway to remove the website
The Foundation said it has already approached the relevant domain registrar regarding the allegedly misleading content. According to the organisation, efforts are also underway to identify those responsible for the website and associated services.
The Foundation added that it would pursue all appropriate legal avenues where necessary. The organisation did not disclose whether any formal legal proceedings have already started.
Focus remains on harm reduction
The SARGF said its work remains centred on responsible gambling education and harm reduction initiatives. It also highlighted continued access to professional support services for individuals and families affected by problem gambling.
“The Foundation remains committed to responsible gambling education, support, counselling and lawful harm reduction interventions. We are taking the necessary steps to address this matter and protect the integrity of the NRGP and the public we serve,” Simelane-Quntana said.
Growing pressure on responsible gambling services
The warning comes as the SARGF faces rising demand for gambling-related support services. According to the Foundation, the growth of online betting and increased exposure among younger audiences continue to place pressure on prevention and treatment programmes.
In an earlier interview with SiGMA News, Executive Director Sibongile Simelane-Quntana said the Foundation has supported more than 24,000 people over two decades through the National Responsible Gambling Programme. The organisation also operates with more than 80 treatment professionals across all nine provinces.
The funding concerns come despite rising demand for support services. The Foundation previously disclosed that NRGP income exceeded “ZAR 40 million ($2.35 million)” for the first time. However, it also reported a funding shortfall of “ZAR 18.3 million ($1.08 million USD).” According to Simelane-Quntana, some operators benefit from using the NRGP’s branding while failing to contribute adequately towards responsible gambling initiatives.
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