Our experts have reviewed 53 VPN providers, which were put through extensive rounds of testing. To learn more about that process, here’s how we review VPNs, where we explain our criteria and our policy of being fully transparent.
While popular platforms like Stake and Roobet are accessible in many countries, most gambling and betting sites are restricted due to complex local laws. This means users in certain regions can’t sign up or access these platforms, even while traveling. A VPN can help bypass these geo-blocks, unlock region-exclusive games, and protect your privacy.
In this article, we’ll review the 5 best VPNs for gambling and sports betting. We’ll also share a guide on how to bypass geo-blocks with a VPN, explain why you need a VPN, and discuss the legalities of gambling sites. Furthermore, we’ll teach you how to choose a VPN, answer some FAQs, and more.
Key Takeaways
Best VPNs for Gambling: Your entire gambling experience depends on using a reliable VPN. NordVPN is the top recommendation, offering fast speeds, powerful unblocking, strong encryption, and obfuscated servers to safely access restricted gambling platforms without detection. For our other recommendations, scroll down.
Why Use a VPN?: A VPN unlocks restricted platforms, improves privacy, protects on public Wi-Fi, bypasses ISP throttling, and helps avoid KYC triggers.
VPN Features to Prioritize: Look for obfuscation, kill switch, WireGuard/OpenVPN, no-logs audits, and a large global server network.
Legal Overview:
Legal & Regulated: EU, UK, Canada (some provinces), Australia, parts of the U.S.
Partially Legal: Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, South Africa, select U.S. states.
Illegal/Restricted: Most of Asia, Middle East, and some U.S. states (e.g., Utah, Hawaii).
Gambling Sites Availability: Platforms like Bet365, DraftKings, and FanDuel are geo-restricted. Use a VPN to access them globally.
Free VPNs Are Risky: Free VPNs often leak data, offer limited bandwidth, and struggle with unblocking. Proton VPN is the best free alternative but is slower.
Safety Tips: Always activate your VPN first, use obfuscated servers, avoid real names or bank links, clear cookies, use disposable emails, and withdraw small amounts frequently.
Editor's Picks: Top 5 VPNs for Online Gambling
NordVPN - NordVPN is our top-rated VPN for online gambling and sports betting, offering blazing-fast speeds, a massive global server network, and a strict no-logs policy. With features like a kill switch, obfuscation, and military-grade encryption, it ensures access, privacy, and performance, even on restricted platforms.
Proton VPN - Proton VPN combines Swiss-based privacy protections, strong no-logs policies, and reliable speeds to deliver secure gambling access. While it doesn’t have the largest server list, its focus on transparency, open-source apps, and robust encryption makes it a great fit for privacy-first gamblers.
ExpressVPN - With servers in 105 countries and advanced obfuscation, ExpressVPN can bypass restrictions on virtually any gambling site. It delivers excellent speeds, airtight security, and seamless IP masking, ideal for users who want smooth, anonymous betting with no compromises.
Surfshark - Surfshark is perfect for casual and frequent gamblers alike, offering access to platforms in 100 countries, solid speeds, and unlimited device support. While it’s budget-friendly, it doesn’t skimp on security, making it a smart, user-friendly choice for betting across multiple regions.
Private Internet Access - PIA covers 90+ countries and all U.S. states, delivering a customizable VPN experience with port forwarding, advanced encryption settings, and reliable speeds. Ideal for experienced users who want fine control, broad access, and solid protection while gambling online.
Selection Criteria for the Best Gambling VPN
Our recommendation is to focus on the ability to bypass geo-blocks, as you'll want your VPN to work with any gambling site out there. In addition, the best VPN providers offer plenty of servers, solid security features, as well as fast speeds. Let's take a closer look:
Ability to Play on Any Online Casinos - Look for VPNs that can reliably unblock platforms like Bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, and international casinos such as 888casino or Betway. Compatibility with these services ensures global access without needing manual configuration or browser extensions.
Plenty of Servers in the US - Gambling laws vary by U.S. state, so VPNs with servers in every state offer the flexibility to connect where online gambling is legal. This also reduces server congestion, improving speed and reliability when accessing U.S.-based platforms.
Server Network Scope and Distribution – You should use one of the VPNs with an extensive server fleet. As a result, you’ll get access to a wide range of gambling platforms to choose from.
Make Sure to Use Obfuscation - VPN obfuscation is great if you want to use digital casinos on more restrictive networks, as you'll bypass anti-VPN measures more easily.
Go for a Kill Switch - When using a VPN, it's essential to ensure that you use a leak-free VPN tunnel, as you don't want your data to surface on the Web, which is why a kill switch is important.
Rely on Audited No-Logs Policies – Go for a VPN with a strict no-logs policy, preferably audited from firms like Deloitte or Cure53, so you can rest assured that not even your VPN will know what you’re doing online.
Privacy-Friendly Protocols & Encryption - Go for a VPN powered by OpenVPN, coupled with AES-256 encryption. Alternatively, pick WireGuard paired with ChaCha20.
Simultaneous Connections & Supported Devices - Most VPNs allow you to connect at least 5 devices at once, while many allow 7, 8, or even an unlimited number of connections. This is especially important if you’re betting on multiple platforms, or want to switch between mobile, desktop, and smart TVs without logging out.
Ensure You Get the Best Performance – Online casinos require fast and reliable speeds so you can have the best experience. Look for VPNs that support WireGuard or Lightway (ExpressVPN's protocol) for lower latency during live sports betting or live dealer games.
Price, Overall Valueand Payment Flexibility- Pay attention to long-term plans, which is how you'll get the lowest VPN price. Many VPNs will add something extra, like a couple of extra months of use. Additionally, we recommend you check out the latest VPN deals for hefty discounts. Also consider VPNs that accept crypto or anonymous payment options, which can be useful for gamblers who prefer extra privacy or live in regions with restrictions.
Generous Money-Back Guarantees - Buying a VPN can be risk-free if you pick one with generous money-back guarantees. We recommend picking a VPN with at least a 30-day money-back policy. Some providers even offer no-questions-asked refunds, giving you the freedom to test the service across different gambling platforms risk-free.
Live Chat Customer Support – Finding a VPN with reliable customer support is a must, as you may need someone to solve any issues that arise. The best customer support includes 24/7 availability. Additionally, priority should be given to VPNs that can guide you through geo-unblocking steps or troubleshoot access issues with gambling platforms in real time.
The Best VPN for Gambling in 2025
Online gambling is a very sensitive online activity, and it requires the best VPN protection you can find. That said, we went through a series of rigorous tests and adhered to a set of very strict criteria. Our goal was to find the most well-rounded, incredibly capable, and privacy-respecting VPNs that allow you to access any online casino instantly.
Our expert team spent countless hours testing 60+ VPN providers so far. That said, these are the 5 best VPNs for online gambling:
NordVPN enables you to effortlessly unblock sports betting and online casino platforms, giving you access to DraftKings, FanDuel, Roobet, Stake, and plenty more. This VPN comes with 7,400+ servers in 118 countries, with many servers in Spain, Mexico, the UK, Switzerland, and Australia, where you can enjoy legal gambling.
NordVPN has no issue unblocking gambling sites like Roobet.
Furthermore, this Panama-based VPN comes with obfuscated servers, a kill switch feature across all its supported platforms, a strict no-logs policy, capable VPN protocols (NordLynx, NordWhisper, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN), and military-grade encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 ). As a result, NordVPN can guarantee leak-free data tunnels, which is essential when gaming.
We also tested several NordVPN servers for IP or DNS leaks and found zero issues. In other words, this provider won't leak your data, which ensures that your location and other sensitive information are away from any gambling platform's eyes.
Expect no IP or DNS leaks from NordVPN's connections.
If you want an even higher level of protection, this VPN also provides a Double VPN feature that encrypts your connection twice by routing your traffic through multiple VPN servers. There are also some unique features, like an ad-blocker and anti-malware. Plus, NordVPN can effectively bypass anti-VPN systems, which is how it can easily evade VPN detection.
NordVPN is also among the fastest VPN services, with equally fast speeds across all its nearby and remote servers. Even upon connecting to a remote server to unblock a specific gambling site, our 700 Mbps connection went down to only 533 Mbps, which is an admirable result.
Test results of NordVPN's Mexico-based server.
Plus, NordVPN always provided extra-stable connections without a single drop or performance fluctuation at any point. It also handles latency excellently, which means you'll enjoy playing live casino games at a very fast response rate, resulting in extra-smooth gambling sessions.
Playing live casino games with NordVPN is no issue.
You can employ this VPN on your Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows devices, such as phones, tablets, and PCs, and you can have up to 10 simultaneous connections.
NordVPN is priced at only $3.09 per month for 24 months and features a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows a full refund if you’re not satisfied with its services. Also, this top-notch provider offers 24/7 customer support available through live chat. Based on our experience, you won't encounter long queues, so a customer support agent will always be there to handle your questions.
Some Standout NordVPN Gambling Features:
Obfuscated Servers to Bypass VPN Blocks:NordVPN's obfuscated servers mask your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, allowing you to evade anti-VPN technologies used by platforms like Roobet, Stake, and Bet365 in restricted regions.
Blazing-Fast Speeds with NordLynx: NordVPN’s custom WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol ensures ultra-fast, low-latency connections, ideal for live betting and streaming real-time casino tables without buffering or lag.
Kill Switch & Advanced Leak Protection: Available on all apps, NordVPN’s kill switch automatically halts all traffic if your VPN connection drops.
Double VPN for High-Risk Regions: Route your traffic through two encrypted servers instead of one, adding a layer of anonymity that's perfect for users accessing gambling platforms.
Threat Protection & Ad Blocker: Blocks malware, phishing attempts, gambling scams, and annoying ads. This is particularly useful when visiting less regulated or offshore betting sites.
Dedicated IP Option: Available as an add-on, a dedicated IP helps avoid frequent captchas or bans on platforms that frown upon shared VPN IPs, making logins and payments more seamless.
SmartPlay Technology: A combination of Smart DNS and VPN, ensuring streamlined access to geo-restricted sites without needing to manually configure DNS settings.
Proton VPN is a strong contender for unblocking gambling sites, with 9,600+ servers in 117 countries where online gambling is legal, including the UK, Spain, Mexico, Switzerland, and the US. It lets you access your favorite casinos and sportsbooks like Stake, Roobet, DraftKings, and more from anywhere in the world.
Proton VPN features Stealth protocol (obfuscated servers) that make your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, helping you bypass VPN blocks on gambling platforms. Plus, it comes with a kill switch available across all supported devices, ensuring your connection stays secure and private.
Additionally, Proton VPN offers AES-256 and ChaCha20 alongside robust VPN protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Stealth, delivering both security and speed. It also enforces a strict no-logs policy backed by Swiss privacy laws, with regular independent audits confirming its trustworthiness.
Our tests confirm no IP or DNS leaks while connected to Proton VPN servers. This means your real location stays hidden from gambling sites, allowing you to dodge anti-VPN blocks seamlessly.
Performance-wise, Proton VPN delivers solid speeds and stable connections. In our speed tests, it maintained fast and reliable throughput, making live betting and streaming casino games smooth and lag-free.
Connection stability is another highlight, once connected, Proton VPN keeps latency low and prevents drops, giving you uninterrupted access whether playing slots, poker, or live dealer games.
Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux, Proton VPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, so you can gamble securely on multiple devices without logging out.
Proton VPN costs $3.59 per month on its 24 months plan and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you try it risk-free. Its customer support has improved recently with 24/7 live chat, ensuring quick help whenever needed.
Some Standout Proton VPN Gambling Features:
High-Speed Performance with WireGuard: Proton VPN supports WireGuard, delivering faster and more stable connections that are perfect for live casino gaming
Kill Switch & Leak Protection: Proton VPN offers a reliable kill switch and robust DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, ensuring your true IP never leaks.
Audited No-Logs Policy & Swiss Jurisdiction: Located in Switzerland, outside EU and 5/9/14 Eyes surveillance alliances, Proton VPN is protected by strict privacy laws. Its no-logs policy has been audited and verified, guaranteeing that your gambling activity leaves no trace.
NetShield Ad & Malware Blocker: This powerful feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, helping you avoid phishing gambling clones, intrusive betting ads, and malicious scripts that could compromise your account.
Open-Source & Independently Audited Apps: Every Proton VPN app is open-source and has undergone independent security audits, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness unmatched by most providers.
Tor over VPN: For extreme privacy, Proton VPN supports Tor over VPN, allowing you to access the Tor network via the VPN tunnel.
Support for Cryptocurrencies: Proton VPN accepts Bitcoin and other anonymous payment methods, making it easy for privacy-conscious gamblers to subscribe without revealing financial details.
ExpressVPN is a high-end VPN that works excellently for spoofing locations from where you can gamble online. This is thanks to its undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries, including plenty of servers in countries where online gambling is legal, such as Spain, Mexico, the UK, Switzerland, and Australia. This VPN will grant you easy access to Roobet, Bet365, Stake, Draft Kings, and dozens more.
ExpressVPN is a prime example of VPN that unblocks any website.
You will have access to its obfuscated servers, which are perfect for an anonymous online experience. You can also employ its kill switch feature to secure your data in case your connection fails at any time. However, that's hard to imagine happening, as ExpressVPN features ultra-stable connections without any fluctuations, even when bypassing the strictest anti-VPN systems.
This British Virgin Islands-based VPN comes with some top-notch security features, such as AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305 encryption, robust VPN protocols (OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2), and a strict, independently audited no-logs policy. This guarantees that ExpressVPN will not store your sensitive information or activities.
ExpressVPN is free of IP/DNS data leaks.
Our testing included checking for IP and DNS leaks, which ExpressVPN passed with flying colors. We detected no data leaks whatsoever. And yes, we went through a series of ExpressVPN locations to ensure that whichever location you pick promises the same level of security.
Moreover, ExpressVPN has lightning-fast speeds and reliable connections that will be sufficient for your gambling journey. More precisely, it delivered 587 Mbps out of our 700 Mbps connection when using a remote server to unblock a gambling platform, which is truly astonishing.
Download and upload speeds of ExpressVPN's Mexico server.
In addition, you'll encounter zero latency issues. Aside from getting extra-stable connections and fast speeds, low latency will ensure that all your gambling sessions are incredibly smooth.
You can play any type of casino game with ExpressVPN.
Another reason ExpressVPN is our recommendation is that it's compatible with mobile and desktop devices and offers a native app for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Also, it allows up to 8 simultaneous connections.
ExpressVPN comes priced at $4.99 per month for 24 months. You will also get a 30-day money-back guarantee with all its plans for a risk-free experience. The cherry on top is that ExpressVPN has reliable and knowledgeable customer support, accessible via live chat 24/7.
Some Standout ExpressVPN Gambling Features:
TrustedServer Technology (RAM-Only Infrastructure): Every ExpressVPN server runs on volatile memory (RAM), meaning no data is ever written to disk
Available in all 50 US states: In a recent development, ExpressVPN has announced that it now has servers in all 50 US states.
Obfuscation on All Servers: Unlike many VPNs, every ExpressVPN server is automatically obfuscated, making your VPN traffic look like standard HTTPS.
Lightway Turbo Protocol for Blazing Speeds: ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway Turbo protocol is optimized for low latency and minimal packet loss, perfect for live dealer games, in-play betting, and gambling sessions.
Kill Switch (Network Lock) & Leak Protection: Available on all major platforms, Network Lock prevents any internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, while built-in DNS and IP leak protection ensures your location never slips through to gambling sites.
Split Tunneling Support: Allows you to route only gambling-related traffic through the VPN while other apps use your regular connection.
Router-Level VPN with AircoveOS: ExpressVPN can be installed directly on your router, and the new AircoveOS v5.3 makes it faster and easier to use.
Threat Manager on iOS & iPadOS: ExpressVPN now includes Threat Manager, which blocks trackers and malicious domains.
Built for the Future of Privacy: ExpressVPN is investing in Rust-based protocols, zero-knowledge systems, and embeddable VPN tech, a forward-thinking approach that ensures continued access to gambling platforms even as censorship tools evolve.
Surfshark is another excellent VPN for unblocking gambling sites, with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including locations where online gambling is legal, such as the UK, Spain, Mexico, Switzerland, and Australia. It allows you to access the casino or sports betting platforms you prefer from anywhere in the world and works with Stake, Roobet, DraftKings, and tons more.
Surfshark can unblock any gambling site with ease.
Surfshark comes with obfuscated servers so that gambling platforms will perceive your traffic as regular Internet traffic—not traffic routed through a VPN server. You will also receive an additional layer of security due to its kill-switch feature, which is available across all its supported devices.
In addition, you can benefit from its AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption and robust VPN protocols, including WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy that goes through regular audits, proving its validity, and it's based in the Netherlands.
Surfshark offers leak-free VPN data tunnels.
As expected from such a powerful VPN, you won't have to worry about leaks. Based on our hands-on tests, your IP and DNS data will remain secure within the VPN tunnel. As a result, gambling platforms won't be able to detect your whereabouts, and you'll get away from anti-VPN blocks.
Moreover, Surfshark is an impressively fast VPN that guarantees stable connections across any server you pick. It behaved pretty well in our testing, managing to get us 462 Mbps out of our 700 Mbps connection when using a very remote server.
Download and upload speeds of Surfshark's Mexico server.
We'll also mention that Surfshark's connections are incredibly stable. It takes a few extra seconds to connect, but you'll always have a stable and low-latency connection. So, whether you want to play classic casino games or participate in live sessions, Surfshark will be able to support you.
Surfshark offers low latency for effortless gambling sessions.
This provider also supports various devices like phones, tablets, PCs, and more and offers software for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The best part is that you’ll get unlimited simultaneous connections.
This VPN costs $2.19 per month for 24 months and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can get a full refund if need be. Surfshark has superb customer support and 24/7 assistance through live chat.
Some Standout Surfshark Gambling Features:
Obfuscated Servers with Camouflage Mode: Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode hides your VPN usage by making encrypted traffic look like regular internet activity. .
Kill Switch & Leak Protection Across All Devices: Surfshark’s built-in kill switch and IPv6/DNS leak protection prevent accidental exposure of your real IP address.
Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Surfshark allows you to connect unlimited devices at the same time, making it a great choice for multi-device gamblers or households sharing a single VPN account across phones, tablets, and desktops.
Audited No-Logs Policy & Netherlands Jurisdiction: Surfshark is based in the privacy-respecting Netherlands, operates a strict no-logs policy, and has undergone independent audits to verify its zero-data retention claims.
CleanWeb Ad & Tracker Blocker: Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware—useful when visiting offshore casinos or poker rooms that bombard users with shady pop-ups and deceptive banners.
Nexus Technology with Dynamic MultiHop: Surfshark’s Nexus routing technology can connect your traffic through a rotating set of servers, enhancing privacy. You can also enable MultiHop to route traffic through two countries at once, great for high-anonymity gambling in sensitive regions.
IP Rotator for Added Anonymity: Surfshark automatically changes your IP periodically without dropping your connection, making it harder for gambling platforms to track or flag your session.
Everlink Technology for Persistent Protection: Surfshark's Everlink feature maintains a stable, encrypted VPN connection even during network interruptions, working even better than traditional kill switches by preventing disconnect-triggered IP leaks altogether.
Private Internet Access (PIA) allows you to access sports betting sites and online casinos from anywhere with minimal fuss. PIA brings an undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries so that you can enjoy gambling from supported locations like the UK, Spain, Mexico, Switzerland, and Australia. Using this VPN, you can play on Roobet, Bet365, Draft Kings, Stake, and more.
PIA can unblock Roobet, Stake, Draft Kings, and more.
PIA has obfuscated servers to hide that you’re using a VPN. You also get a kill switch, AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and strong protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2)). We'll also add that this VPN comes from the United States.
Being such a well-equipped VPN, it's no surprise that it's free of IP and DNS leaks. No matter which protocol you select or which server you decide to use, you won't have to worry about data leaks. So, there's zero risk of gambling platforms seeing your actual location. That's also the reason why PIA is great for avoiding anti-VPN blocks.
No leaks were detected while testing PIA.
PIA allows you to customize your level of protection and modify your settings according to your preferences. It's among the rare VPNs that come with several types of encryption ciphers, which you can further customize, letting you strike the right balance between speed and security.
Download and upload speeds of PIA's Mexico server.
In terms of performance, PIA delivers fast speeds, and its connections are reliable and consistent. After connecting to a very remote server, PIA gave us 505 Mbps on our 700 Mbps connection. You can expect even faster speeds if you pick a nearby server that can unblock gambling sites. The same applies to latency, which remains under control at all times.
PIA allows you to play live games lag-free.
PIA comes with apps for Windows and macOS, as well as Android and iOS devices. You can count on unlimited simultaneous connections, covering phones, laptops, desktops, and tablets.
You can sign up for $2.19 per month for 24 months. You will also get a 30-day money-back guarantee for a full refund if you’re unsatisfied with its services. Lastly, PIA has 24/7 customer support, giving you a chance to ask for assistance with any issue that may arise.
Some Standout PIA VPN Gambling Features:
Port Forwarding for Improved Stability: PIA is one of the few premium VPNs that offer port forwarding, which can help maintain faster and more stable connections when gambling.
Servers in All 50 U.S. States + 90+ Countries: PIA provides a massive network with servers in every U.S. state, allowing you to connect specifically to states where gambling is legal.
Obfuscation via Multi-Hop & Shadowsocks Support: PIA includes Shadowsocks proxy integration and multi-hop configurations, helping disguise your VPN usage and allowing access to gambling sites in VPN-restrictive regions like the UAE, Singapore, or some parts of Eastern Europe.
Advanced Kill Switch & DNS Leak Protection: Its kill switch is system-level, meaning traffic is fully blocked if the VPN disconnects. Alongside custom DNS settings and leak protection, your real IP and location stay hidden from gambling platforms at all times.
No-Logs Policy Verified by Court Records: While not yet independently audited, PIA’s no-logs claims have been tested and upheld in multiple court cases
Custom Encryption Settings: Unique to PIA, you can customize your VPN encryption level (AES-128 or AES-256), handshake type, and data authentication method. This allows for a balance of speed vs. security.
MACE Ad & Tracker Blocker: PIA’s built-in MACE feature blocks malicious domains, trackers, and ads often found on shady or offshore gambling platforms, protecting your identity and device from scams and clutter.
Each of the VPNs we tested, including those recommended above, underwent a series of examinations. Our VPN review procedure includes checking everything from their ability to bypass geo-restrictions, testing their speed, latency, and connection stability up to reaching customer support, and more. Here's more detailed information:
1. Assessing the Ability to Bypass Geo-Restrictions
How we test:
We first identify popular geo-blocked gambling platforms (e.g., Stake, Bovada, BetMGM).
We pick a VPN server location that should unblock the gambling platform in question.
We log in, place bets, and play games to ensure that there's continuous, unrestricted access.
Why is it important: Since most gambling platforms/apps are restricted to specific countries only, a capable VPN should be able to provide you access to practically any blocked site without any effort.
2. Real-Time Connection Stability Tests
How we test:
We pick a server in a suitable location, not too far away from our physical location.
Our team participates in live betting, poker, and other real-time casino games.
We monitor the connection for any drops or interruptions, ensuring there's a stable connection.
Why is it important: Not all VPNs deliver equally stable connections to nearby and remote servers, so this step is essential to ensure that we recommend VPNs that can guarantee smooth operation.
3. Comparing Speed and Latency Across Multiple Servers
How we test:
We select a range of nearby and remote VPN servers to check their speed and latency.
We use speedtest.net to check the latency and speed of nearby and remote connections.
We compare the results with our baseline results to highlight the best-performing VPNs.
Why is it important: Latency and speed are crucial for getting a smooth live betting session. Any drops in performance can make your gambling session stutter and put your account at risk of being inspected.
Then, we connect to a series of nearby and remote VPN servers.
After each connection, we check how our IP address and DNS servers change.
In the end, we ensure that our original IP and DNS servers don't appear at any point.
Why is it important: Even a split-second IP/DNS leak can expose your sensitive data while gambling, raising an alarm that you're violating usage policies. So, a leak-free VPN environment is essential to prevent potential issues with your account down the line.
5. Testing the Ability to Bypass VPN Detection
How we test:
We select a group of servers in regions where the inspected gambling sites work.
Upon connecting, we log in and use the selected platforms.
We monitor for any access errors or geo-restriction warnings.
Why is it important: Gambling platforms employ strong anti-VPN systems designed to prevent VPN users from bypassing geo-blocks and licensing restrictions. A high-quality VPN helps you not worry about detection, providing you with a seamless gambling session.
6. Examining VPNs’ Server Networks and Distribution
How we test:
We check if the VPN offers servers in locations that can unblock gambling platforms.
We connect to each chosen location and then test a series of gambling platforms.
During each session, we monitor for any changes in speed or stability.
Why is it important: A sizable server network gives you plenty of freedom to choose the most suitable server location to unblock a casino platform. By having many servers at your disposal, you’ll have an easier time unblocking a larger variety of sites.
7. Inspecting Privacy Policy and Security Features
How we test:
We read each VPN's privacy policy and check whether data logging is involved.
Then, we check for the available VPN protocols and encryption on all supported platforms.
We also enable DNS leak protection and a kill switch to test how well those features work.
Why is it important: Gambling is a sensitive activity. Naturally, you’ll wish to hide it from your Internet provider and third parties, as well as from your VPN. A no-logs provider will make that possible. Plus, you’ll need advanced security features to ensure a leak-free gambling experience.
8. Ensuring the Quality of Customer Support
How we test:
We approach each VPN's support team via live chat and email.
We ask for server recommendations and troubleshooting common issues.
Then, we evaluate the speed and quality of the support provided.
Why is it important: There are many benefits of using a VPN with responsive support. First, you’ll get to resolve your issues quickly without disrupting your gambling activities. Also, a knowledgeable team will provide assistance promptly without going back and forth too much.
Why Do Gamblers Need a VPN?
A VPN is an essential tool for unblocking geo-restricted sports betting and gambling platforms, and it can also ensure your online privacy. Without a VPN, if you try to access gambling sites from restricted countries, you’ll encounter an error message similar to the following example: “We're not available in your region”
With a VPN, you can change your location to a country where gambling is legal. Here are some other reasons to use a VPN:
Gain Access to Geo-Blocked Casinos – If you live in a country where online gambling is banned, you can use a VPN to spoof location to gamble online and gain access to any site.
Avoid Gambling Licensing Issues – Many gambling sites restrict certain types of games in some countries or states. You may have a smaller choice of games unless you use a VPN.
Secure Deposits and Withdrawals - A VPN ensures that your deposits and withdrawals are fully encrypted, providing a much-needed privacy layer for your financial information.
Gamble While Traveling Abroad – Going for the best VPN country will let you pick a location that complies with all gambling laws so that you can use gambling sites even while traveling.
Access Gambling Apps on Public Wi-Fi - Thanks to VPN encryption, you can rest assured that your sensitive data will be protected on any type of network, including public Wi-Fi.
Access a Wider Variety of Gambling Sites –Some countries restrict their citizens from gambling or betting on sports. With a VPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions and access any gambling sites.
Protect Your Digital Privacy –While using a VPN, you will encrypt your traffic and protect it from unauthorized access. Your ISP won't see what you do online or keep track of your VPN traffic.
Evade Web Bandwidth Throttling - By hiding your data from your ISP, you can use a VPN to bypass bandwidth throttling and unleash the full speed of your Web connection.
Conceal Your Browsing Activity - Don't want online trackers to know that you often visit gambling or betting sites? Well, a VPN will prevent your data from surfacing on the Web.
How to Use a VPN for Online Gambling
Your first step is to find a capable VPN provider. Then, sign up, install its app, and connect to a suitable server to bypass geo-blocks and secure your connections. Just follow these steps:
Visit the VPN provider’s official website or trusted app store to install the correct version for your device (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, or router).
Launch the VPN app and sign in to your account.
Enable Key Gaming-Friendly Features
Kill Switch
Obfuscation / Camouflage Mode
DNS / IP Leak Protection
Split Tunneling (optional)
Ad / Threat Blocker (like Nord’s Threat Protection or Surfshark’s CleanWeb)
Dedicated IP(optional add-on)
Connect to a VPN server where your preferred online casino is available.
Test for Leaks & Stability
Now, you can enjoy unrestricted access to any online gambling site.
In some cases, you need to use a VPN to sports bet or gamble online alongside a geo-location plugin. Once you pick a US state to play in, download the required plugin's corresponding version (for your chosen state). Ensure you're always connected to the same VPN server from there on. Also, make sure to pick a VPN server that allows you to unblock as many games as possible.
Why Is Online Gambling Illegal in Some States?
Online gambling is banned in many regions due to ethical, social, and regulatory concerns:
Ethical and Social Risks: Authorities often view gambling as unethical. Long-term losses can harm individuals, and there's concern over social dominance, manipulation, and exploitation.
Fairness and Integrity: If games offer unfair odds or allow cheating by operators, they may be banned.
Regulatory Compliance: Platforms must comply with local laws. Failure to meet licensing or operational standards leads to bans.
Examples of Regulations:
USA: Federal Wire Act (1961) and Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (2006) restrict financial transactions for gambling.
UK: Regulated by the Gambling Commission.
Australia: Governed by the Interactive Gambling Act (2001).
Gambling Laws and Regulations in Different Countries
Region
Legality
Details
Europe
Legal & Regulated
Widely legalized and regulated. Key jurisdictions: UK, Malta, Gibraltar, Isle of Man, Alderney. Regulated by EGBA (European Gaming and Betting Association).
United States
Partially Legal
~50% of states allow online gambling. Legal in: Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, etc. Each state has its own regulations.
Canada
Legal
Online gambling is legal. Regulation is handled at the provincial level (e.g., BC Lottery Corporation).
South America
Partially Legal
Legal in Mexico, Argentina, Colombia. Brazil allows sports betting, restricts other forms.
Asia
Mostly Illegal
Most countries (e.g., China, Middle East) ban gambling. Legal hubs: Philippines, Hong Kong, Macau.
Oceania
Legal / Offshore Access
Australia: Legal but tightly regulated under the Interactive Gambling Act. New Zealand: Citizens can use offshore platforms.
Where Are Online Gambling & Sports Betting Legal & Illegal?
The legality of online gambling and sports betting varies by region. It is fully legal and regulated across much of the European Union (e.g., Germany, France, Spain), while most Asian countries impose broad bans. In the U.S., laws differ by state; Nevada and Florida regulate sports betting, while California largely prohibits it, and Texas and Georgia are still considering legalization. Many regions rely on offshore platforms where local access is restricted, making the global legal landscape for online gambling complex and fragmented.
Countries Where Gambling is Legal
Online gambling and sports betting are slowly becoming legal worldwide. In the table below, you can find the countries where gambling is legal, along with their specific regulations.
Country
Gambling Regulations
Country
Gambling Regulations
Algeria
Only sports betting and basic casino games allowed
Malta
Legal
Australia
Legal
Mauritius
Legal
Belgium
Legal
Mexico
Legal
Canada
Legal, but only in some provinces
Michigan, USA
Legal
Cape Verde
Only sports betting and basic casino games allowed
Morocco
Legal
China
Only lottery and poker allowed
Netherlands
Legal
Curaçao
Legal
Macau (China)
Legal
Connecticut, USA
Legal
New Jersey, USA
Legal
Denmark
Legal
New Zealand
Only gambling sites based in NZ allowed
Delaware, USA
Legal
Norway
Legal
France
Legal
Pennsylvania, USA
Legal
Germany
Legal
Philippines
Legal
Gibraltar
Legal
Poland
Legal
Hungary
Legal
Portugal
Legal
India
Only Sikkim and Goa allowed
Russia
Legal
Ivory Coast
Only sports betting and basic casino games allowed
South Africa
Legal
Italy
Legal
Spain
Legal
Japan
Only horse racing, bicycle racing, powerboat racing, and motorcycle racing allowed
Switzerland
Legal
Kazakhstan
Legal
Thailand
Legal
Kenya
Legal
West Virginia, USA
Legal
Macao
Legal
United Kingdom
Legal
Countries Where Gambling is Illegal
Gambling can be illegal mainly because authorities perceive it as unethical because gambling platforms don’t comply with the country's regulations, if winning chances are low, or if casino owners cheat in a way so you can’t make significant wins or any wins at all.
Here is a list of countries where gambling is illegal:
Country
Legal Status
Afghanistan
A blanket ban on all forms of gambling.
Cambodia
To curb the prevalence of gambling addiction.
United Arab Emirates
Most Islamic countries outlaw all forms of gambling.
Singapore
All forms of Internet gambling are outlawed.
Japan
Sports betting is allowed, but online casinos aren't.
Jordan
A blanket ban on all forms of gambling.
Qatar
All forms of gambling are illegal.
North Korea
Gambling is allowed only for visitors/non-residents.
Cyprus
Sports betting is allowed; Other forms are outlawed.
Poland
There's a monopoly on betting.
Iran
A blanket ban on all forms of gambling.
Lebanon
All forms of Internet gambling are outlawed.
Indonesia
Outlawed based on "moral" grounds.
Brunei
Islamic country that outlaws all forms of gambling.
Brazil
State-run lottery and horse racing betting are only allowed.
Bahrain
A blanket ban on all forms of gambling.
Bangladesh
Gambling is outlawed by the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
Canada
Illegal unless otherwise regulated by Canadian provinces.
Cuba
Outlawed by Fidel Castro in 1959 by the Ley 86 1959.
Ecuador
A blanket ban on gambling was introduced in 2011.
Hawaii (USA)
Gambling-free US state since 1959.
Utah (USA)
Gambling activities carry a misdemeanor charge.
Mali
Islamic country with a blanket ban on gambling.
Somalia
Outlawed based on "moral" grounds.
Sudan
All forms of gambling have been prohibited since 1991.
Saudi Arabia
All forms of gambling are illegal.
Is It Illegal to Use a VPN to Gamble Online?
In most cases, it's not illegal to gamble online with a VPN, as long as VPNs or gambling are legal in your country. That said, there are countries that ban VPNs, so it's highly important to keep in mind your local laws.
The main drawback is that some gambling websites might restrict your access when using a VPN. For example, online casinos can entirely deny you access to their sites or freeze your winnings. That's because unblocking gambling sites with VPN might be against their Terms and Conditions.
That’s why we recommend using a VPN that has obfuscated servers to hide the fact that you’re using a VPN, with the best option being NordVPN. As a result, the casino will perceive the VPN traffic as regular browsing traffic and allow you to enjoy its game selection.
Popular Online Gambling and Sports Betting Sites in 2025
If you want to explore various top gambling sites, you have an overwhelming number of choices. That’s why we made a table of the best gambling/sports betting platforms, featuring the most extensive availability. Take a look below.
Gambling/Sports Betting Platform
International Availability
US Availability
5dimes
Everywhere except Australia, Brazil, France, Hungary, Guam, North Korea, Puerto Rico, Panama, Japan, Iran, Portugal, Slovenia, Russia, Slovakia, Ukraine, Switzerland, Sweden, USA, UK, Vietnam, and American Samoa
N/A
888sport
Everywhere except Australia, Germany, Denmark, France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Argentina, Sweden, Cuba, and Afghanistan
Available everywhere except Aruba, Australia, Bonaire, Curacao, Denmark, France, Malta, The Netherlands, Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, Singapore, Spain, UK, and USA.
Argentina, Bolivia, Belgium, Costa Rica, Chile, Cuba, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Eritrea, El Salvador, Guatemala, Grenada, Guinea, Honduras, Haiti, Jamaica, Libya, Morocco, New Zealand, Nigeria, Nepal, Rwanda, South Africa, South Korea, Venezuela, and more.
Everywhere except North Macedonia, Netherlands, Russia, Cyprus, Serbia, India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, all Muslim countries in the Middle East, most of Africa, USA (most states), Puerto Rico, Haiti, and Oceania.
Everywhere except Afghanistan, Armenia, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Colombia, Cuba, Curaçao, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Iran, Isle of Man, Italy, Moldova, Mongolia, Philippines, Portugal, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United States of America, Zimbabwe/
Everywhere except Afghanistan, Australia, Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Iran, Lithuania, Malta, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Korea, Slovenia, Syria, United Kingdom, United States of America, Yemen
Everywhere except Aruba, Austria, Curacao, French Guiana, French Polynesia, Germany, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom, United States.
Everywhere except Australia, Belgium, China, Macau, Hong Kong SAR, Curaçao, Cuba, Germany, Iran, Lithuania, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Korea, Singapore, Syria, Spain, United States of America, United Kingdom.
N/A
As you can see, very few digital casinos are available globally. So, if any of the recommendations above aren't available in your country, you can always use a VPN. In that case, NordVPN should be your #1 pick due to its strong content-unblocking abilities.
Can You Rely on a Free VPN for Gambling?
Even though you can use a free VPN for online gambling and sports betting, you can't actually rely on them to keep you safe online.
Free VPNs
Premium VPNs
Location Privacy
❌ May leak your real IP/DNS
✅ Leak-proof tunnels and IP masking
Security Features
❌ Basic or missing (no kill switch, no obfuscation)
All in all, free VPNs may seem appealing, but they lack the speed, security, and reliability needed for safe online gambling. They often leak your real location, struggle to unblock platforms, and may even compromise your data.
Therefore, if you are unsure, we highly recommend trying a free VPN trial, which gives you access to premium features for a limited time. More precisely, you can use NordVPN's free trial period, available on Android for 7 days. There are 30-day money-back guarantees for other platforms. Alternatively, check the best VPN deals available right now or our guide to the best affordable VPNs.
If you're set on using a free VPN, get Proton VPN. It's a reputable free option with unlimited bandwidth. However, it does have very limited speeds, which is something to keep in mind.
Safety Tips for Online Gaming
Certain gambling/betting platforms prohibit the use of VPNs. In that case, your funds might get frozen, or your account might be banned/deleted. That means you need to use a VPN very carefully, following a series of precautionary steps, like so:
Safety Tip
Description
Start VPN First
Always activate your VPN before accessing any gambling or betting platform to avoid IP leaks.
Use Obfuscated Servers
If available, connect to obfuscated (stealth) servers to bypass VPN detection mechanisms.
Enable Kill Switch
Ensure the VPN's kill switch is on to prevent any data leaks if the connection drops.
Use Anonymous Payments
Opt for anonymous payment options like cryptocurrency or prepaid cards to hide your country of origin.
Withdraw Frequently
Cash out your winnings regularly to reduce the chance of triggering account reviews or bans.
Avoid Large Withdrawals
Avoid withdrawing large sums in one go, as this often leads to mandatory KYC checks.
Don't Use Your Real Name
When registering, avoid using real names or identifiable personal information if the platform allows.
Avoid Linking to Bank Accounts
Don’t link your personal bank account or any financial institution tied to your identity.
Clear Cookies and Cache
Regularly clear your browser/app data to reduce tracking and detection by platforms.
Use Disposable Emails
Sign up with a disposable or alias email address to further protect your identity.
Test for IP & DNS Leaks
Use online tools to test if your real IP or DNS is being exposed while the VPN is on.
Final Thoughts
Due to strict regulations and decisive laws, online gambling/betting is restricted in most countries in one way or another. Therefore, going for a VPN is the only way to open up your access to the Web. Doing so will help you unblock casino and betting sites, bypass licensing restrictions on individual games, protect your privacy, hide your traffic, and get away from internet tracking.
Of course, we'll also remind you that gambling laws differ in each country. In some cases, different regions of a single country can have different gambling legislation. Using a VPN lets you stay proactive in that sense, as it hides your traffic, but make sure that you respect your local laws.
In conclusion, we'll remind you to put your trust in a trustworthy VPN's hands. Based on our findings, NordVPN checks all the right boxes. It's the best VPN for online gambling and betting, with a huge server network, high-end performance, high-end privacy, and practically anything else you could expect from a hugely capable VPN.
That said, all our recommended options are valid as well. For example, Surfshark is excellent if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections, while ExpressVPN delivers the fastest speed. PIA is a fantastic pick for more advanced VPN users, and CyberGhost is for the average home user with a fast baseline connection due to slowdowns on remote servers.
FAQ
Which VPN is Best for Online Gambling?
NordVPN is the best VPN for online gambling. This VPN provider offers an extensive server network, fast speeds, obfuscation, and other top-notch security features.
Is Betting Using a VPN Illegal?
No, betting using a VPN is not illegal. While gambling itself can be unlawful in some countries, you can use a VPN to unblock your preferred gambling site by choosing a location in any unrestricted country.
Can You Use a VPN to Play Online Casinos?
Yes, you can use a VPN to play in online casinos. In fact, by using a VPN to gamble online, you get access to a more considerable range of online casinos and games. We recommend NordVPN as it's the best VPN provider for online poker, other casino games, and sports betting.
What Gambling Sites Work with VPN?
Almost all gambling sites work with a VPN - in the sense that you can unblock them using a VPN and keep playing even away from your home. And when it comes to sites that allow online gambling with a VPN, those are CasinoGap and FortuneJack.
Is Online Gambling Legal in the US?
Yes, online gambling in the US is legal in states such as Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. Moreover, even though online gambling is illegal in states like Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, and North Carolina, those states should legalize online gambling by the end of this year.
Do Online Casinos Track Your IP Address?
Yes, most online casinos track your IP address. They do that to determine your physical location, as most online casinos are licensed to operate in specific regions/countries only.
Can You Use a VPN to Sports Bet?
Yes, you can use a VPN for sports betting. By using the best sports betting VPN, such as NordVPN, you can effectively bypass geo-restrictions and access any sports betting platform you want.
Is Sports Betting Legal in the US?
Yes, sports betting in the US is legal, for the most part. More precisely, sports betting is legal across 30+ US states. Some of the biggest states where sports betting isn't legal are California, Texas, Alabama, and Utah.
How to Use Sports Betting Apps Out of State?
To use sports betting apps out of state, you need to connect to a VPN. Connect to a server in a state with liberal gambling laws, and you'll gain access to any betting/gambling app or website.
What Sportsbooks Can You Use a VPN For?
Some of the most popular sportsbooks that work with a VPN are DraftKings Sportsbook, Barstool Sportsbook (ESPN BET), BetOnline, and BetUS.
This is where we conclude this comprehensive guide. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!
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