TLDR A new report from fraud prevention platform SEON found fraud activity rose across sportsbooks during the 2026 World Cup. Dormant betting accounts were the top entry point for fraudsters, with activity up 83% compared to before the tournament. Average blocked fraudulent withdrawals rose from $202 before the World Cup to $436 during it. Stolen credential logins jumped 115% in Europe during match-day traffic spikes. Experts warn similar fraud patterns could return when NFL and college football seasons begin.
The 2026 World Cup ended with Spain lifting the trophy in July. But according to a new report from fraud prevention company SEON, the tournament also became a target for fraudsters.
SEON studies gambling activity across global markets. Its report looked at fraud attempts before, during, and after the 48-team tournament.
George Pace, lead product marketing manager for betting and gaming at SEON, called it the “World Cup of fraud.” He said large sportsbook promotions during major events attract criminals looking for weak spots.
Dormant Accounts Became a Target
The report found that dormant betting accounts were the main way fraudsters got in. These accounts had already passed identity checks earlier, so operators trusted them more.
Activity from these accounts rose 83% compared to before the World Cup. In Latin America, that number reached 118%.
Pace said many operators assume returning accounts are safe because they were verified months earlier. Fraudsters buy or steal these accounts, then use them to claim retention bonuses, which are often larger than sign-up bonuses.
Blocked fraudulent withdrawals also grew during the tournament. The average blocked amount rose from $202 before the World Cup to $436 during it. SEON said this shows fraudsters focused on fewer, larger transactions instead of many small ones.
Stolen login activity also spiked. Europe saw a 115% rise