Know your customer casino guide – What is KYC?

AN INCREASING number of online casinos promote quick registration with no verification. In my experience, signing up on sites where anonymity is at the forefront can be dangerous. The Know Your Customer (KYC) process helps to ensure that customers are legitimate.

KYC also identifies any risks with new players. This is why I recommend playing games on a Know Your Customer casino. My guide will outline why KYC is important and how you can complete the process. 

What are know your customer protocols in casinos?

KYC was established to verify customers' identities. It also looks at their suitability and any risks that may arise. Casino sites are just one platform that uses KYC. The three components are customer identification program (CIP), Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Continuous Monitoring (CM). 

To complete the CIP stage, you must upload a copy of your ID. I suggest using a driver’s license or passport. This is because you must verify your identity and home address. Casinos will then carry out a risk assessment. The results will determine how regularly the casino looks into your activity. 

The final part of KYC involves casinos looking out for suspicious activity. If this is flagged, I should say that you risk having your account suspended. You may even have your details passed to authorities. 

👨‍🏫 Why is KYC important in online gambling?

Online casinos must comply with gambling laws. They must also meet requirements set by gambling authorities. The KYC process helps ensure that players are legally allowed to gamble. This is why I recommend providing legitimate documents. KYC also identifies any risks, such as addiction. 

KYC plays a key role in preventing money laundering and irresponsible gambling. I have read that casinos monitor all activity, including your spending patterns. From there, they can quickly identify who may be at risk of developing problems. 

🕵️ Are there online casinos without KYC protocols?

Yes. However, I would not recommend taking advantage of these casinos. No KYC casinos allow players to quickly and easily register, without providing a valid ID. KYC can be time-consuming and intrusive. It is worth completing in my opinion. In the UK, a casino without Know Your Customer does not comply with legal standards. 

KYC is one of the first things I look for when looking for a trustworthy casino. From there, I know I can build a long-term relationship with the operator. No KYC casinos are most commonly associated with the crypto market. This is not prominent in the UK yet. 

🔒 How is customer personal data protected at online casinos?

I understand if you have concerns about your data online. Online casinos must prove that they can keep your information safe. They do so by introducing encryption and firewall technology. Such tools make it more difficult for third parties to access your details. 

With KYC involving sensitive personal information, top security is necessary for any casino I sign up with. There are many data protection laws that casinos must adhere to. The protection of payment details and sensitive information has never been more important.   

📩 Can online casinos request a copy of your ID?

Yes. A copy of your ID will be used to verify your age and identity. I have found that a passport, driver’s license or ID card can be used on most casino sites. Without completing the KYC process, your account will not be verified. In my experience, this means that you will be unable t to request withdrawals and complete other tasks. 

What is customer due diligence or CDD?

This is a requirement for online casinos that involves completing risk assessments for new players. You will be assigned a risk rating, which will dictate how much you are monitored. Simplified Due Diligence (SDD), basic Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) are the three levels. 

In my experience, SDD is for new players who make a small opening deposit. This is compared to EDD. This will occur if you are deemed a high-risk customer. This can be because of the amount you are wagering or links to other organisations. 

💳 Do online casinos require pictures of your payment methods to sign up?

I have been asked to provide a picture of my payment method. This is a step taken by online casinos to minimise the threat of fraud. Fraudsters often attempt to use someone else’s bank card or e-wallet account. 

Check out our bankroll management guide and keep control of your budget.

📋 How do online casino KYC protocols work?

Are you still wondering how to complete KYC with your casino? I have provided a step-by-step guide for you to follow below:

1. Enter the website of your chosen casino.
2. Complete the registration form.
3. Access the KYC page. 
4. Upload a valid copy of your ID.
5. Wait for your document to be verified. 
6. Re-check your KYC status. 

❓ Know your customer casino FAQs

These are some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding KYC, along with my answers. 

1. Does completing KYC procedures speed up withdrawals?

You cannot request a withdrawal on most casino sites until the KYC process is complete. So, if you want to take home winnings quickly, I suggest uploading a copy of your ID ASAP. 

2. Is it safe to gamble at casinos without KYC verification?

No. I do not recommend creating an account with a casino that does not require KYC verification. While this is an option in some countries, UK casinos must feature KYC to operate legally. 

3. How complicated is KYC in reality?

I don’t see the fuss about KYC. The process takes less than 24 hours in most cases. While delays sometimes occur, the longest I have waited is 3 days. In my experience, the benefits of KYC outweigh the limitations. 

4. What can make a casino reject a customer during KYC verification?

Uploading an ineligible document is the most common reason for a rejected KYC verification. If you are rejected, you will likely receive an explanation for why. Be sure to provide a valid copy of your ID that shows you can legally sign up. 

Read our guide on casino players' rights and stay safe when gambling.