## Don’t Fall for “Free Credits”: A New Russian Scam Network is Targeting Crypto Gamers
Last month, security researcher KrebsOnSecurity brought a concerning trend to light: a sudden surge of sophisticated online gambling and wagering websites. These sites, designed to look legitimate, are luring unsuspecting players with the promise of “free credits,” only to make off with any cryptocurrency deposited.
The concerning news gets worse. We’ve now learned that this burgeoning network of scam gambling sites is being powered by a new Russian affiliate program known as **”Gambler Panel.”** True to its chilling self-description, this program operates as a “soulless project that is made for profit.”
This sophisticated operation highlights a growing threat to cryptocurrency users who enjoy online gaming. Gambler Panel appears to be a centralized platform that facilitates the creation and promotion of these fraudulent gambling sites, allowing scammers to quickly launch new operations and reach a wider audience.
**What this means for you:**
* **Be Wary of “Free Credits”:** This is a classic bait-and-switch tactic. Legitimate online gaming platforms may offer bonuses, but an outright promise of “free credits” to start playing should be a major red flag.
* **Scrutinize New Gambling Sites:** If you’re considering playing on a new online platform, do your due diligence. Look for established reputations, reviews from trusted sources, and clear terms and conditions.
* **Protect Your Cryptocurrency:** Never deposit more cryptocurrency than you are willing to lose, especially on unfamiliar platforms. Be cautious about sharing your wallet details.
* **The Rise of “Gambler Panel”:** The existence of programs like Gambler Panel suggests a more organized and scalable approach to online gambling scams. This means we can expect to see more of these sites popping up.
This trend underscores the importance of staying informed and vigilant in the online world, particularly when dealing with financial transactions and high-risk activities like online gambling. Keep an eye out for these scam sites, and share this information to help protect others.
[Source](https://krebsonsecurity.com/2025/08/affiliates-flock-to-soulless-scam-gambling-machine/)
