How to avoid cheating with "sticky" bonuses

1. What is the "sticky" bonus

A "sticky" bonus is a bonus that cannot be deducted with the win. After completing the vager, the player can only withdraw net winnings, and the amount of the bonus itself is debited from the balance. In some cases, such bonuses covertly limit the maximum payoff, effectively reducing the real value of the offer.

2. How sticky bonuses work

1. The player receives a bonus (for example, $100) and starts playing.
2. The bonus amount is mixed with the deposit or given separately, but is included in the balance.
3. When the bonus is displayed, it is written off, and you can only display the amount of winnings in excess of the bonus.
4. Sometimes conditions add a limit on the maximum gain, even if the wager is complete.

Example:
  • Deposit: $100.
  • Bonus: $100 (sticky).
  • The player placed $3,000 bets and won $500.
  • When withdrawing, the casino removes the bonus $100, and $400 remains to be paid.

3. Types of sticky bonuses

3. 1. Classic sticky bonus

The bonus is immediately added to the balance, but is always written off during output.

3. 2. Phantom bonus

The bonus exists only within the rates and is not displayed as a separate amount.
After the conditions are met, it disappears, only the gain remains.

3. 3. Sticky bonus with win limit

Even after wagering, the maximum amount that can be deducted is limited (for example, 3 × of the bonus amount).

4. Why sticky bonuses are considered problematic

Players often do not understand that the bonus cannot be deducted.
A high vager + inability to withdraw a bonus makes the stock impractical.
The limit on winning can greatly cut potential income.
The casino sometimes does not indicate that the bonus is sticky, or hides it in the rules.

5. How to spot a sticky bonus

1. Carefully read the bonus conditions - look for the phrases "non-cashable," "sticky bonus," "bonus removed on within."
2. Pay attention to the section on withdrawal - if it is written that the bonus is not paid, this is a sticky option.
3. View winnings limits - limits of 2-5 × of the bonus amount often indicate stickiness.
4. Study reviews - real players often write about such cases.

6. How to avoid cheating with sticky bonuses

Choose a casino with transparent bonus conditions, where it is clearly indicated whether the bonus can be displayed.
Give preference to cache bonuses (displayed bonuses), where after completing the vager you can collect the entire amount.
Avoid offers with an unreasonably high bonus (for example, 500%), as they often turn out to be sticky.
Check for restrictions on winnings and the percentage of games contributed to the game.

7. Result

Sticky bonuses are one way casinos reduce the real value of a stock to the player. They are not always deceptive, but can be misleading unless the terms are clearly disclosed. It is important for Australian players to read the rules carefully, avoid offers with questionable wording and choose casinos with honest cashable bonuses.