Have you ever gotten these messages while trying to use an online casino app?”
“Your device is running software which may be utilized to bypass geolocation checks”
“We have been unable to determine if you are in the state, so you may not currently play for real money”
We have the answers to how you can fix your location verification and start playing games for real money.
Player Location Check Not Working
Geolocation is a technology that allows online gambling sites in states like New Jersey to detect player locations with precision.
Unlike previous versions of player location verification, which depended solely on GPS and cellular phone IP addresses, the current geolocation technology is more accurate and is less susceptible to bypass by VPNs.
Location verification is not unique to online casino platforms, many companies use the same techniques to pinpoint the location of potential customers, to offer them relevant products and services.
So how does this actually work?
Online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker sites have partnered with third-party software suppliers who provide these services. Once you register, you need to download and install geolocation software on your device.
Why Do Casinos Need Geolocation
The issue of geolocation in online casinos in the US is a matter of compliance. Online gambling is highly regulated in the United States. It is subject to restrictions stated in the Wire Act and the UIGE Act, among others. These pieces of legislation add a layer of regulation that is not required in other jurisdictions where online gambling is enjoyed.
Online casino regulators and legislators in the US have taken a state-wide approach when it comes to the legalization of gambling. This means states have the option to regulate local gambling as they see fit.
This disjointed approach makes it necessary for states to monitor who, in their jurisdiction, is taking part in any related online gambling activity. Participants in online gambling in New Jersey and other American states need to be physically present in the state when they are playing for real money.
This is where location check verification comes in.
Today, there are numerous companies offering geolocation verification services. Of these, GeoComply seems to have come out on top. This company offers geolocation verification services not just in New Jersey, but in other states where online gambling is already legal such as Pennsylvania and Michigan.
So, how do casinos using GeoComply know where you are? Whenever a request is made from your device to connect to the casino server, GeoComply retrieves location matrics like IP, Wi-Fi, GPS, GSM, and mobile device data.
Does GeoComply Always Work?
GeoComply is a superior location validator, which definitely has a leg up over other alternatives.
But like anything tech, it can never be said to be totally 100% reliable. There are always some issues that will need fine-tuning to make the whole experience better.
This is why GeoComply is committed to continuous improvement. It conducts periodic updates of its services and products, which address the most common bugs. But sometimes, validation issues are caused by aspects other than the app or plugin itself.
These can be as simple as a bad connection or a plethora of other issues that contribute to the unreliability of this location validator.
GeoComply technicians advise that you need to update their products to the latest versions to get the best experience. GeoComply also works best if you are on iOS 12.0 or higher. Other problems may also arise because of how you set up GeoComply products.
For example, these services will not work properly if push notifications on your device are turned off.
Player Location Verification Troubleshooting Tips
Geolocation tech can be tricky and you might experience challenges when you start using it. In this section, we have included tips to help you wrap your head around the whole process.
When you complete registration in your desired casino app, you need to verify your location using GeoComply before you can bet. So, when you load the casino app for the first time, a pop-up should appear, prompting you to download GeoComply.
If it doesn’t, don’t worry. It probably means push notifications are turned off on your device. You can easily turn these on by clicking on the alert next to the address bar and select the “Always allow pop up from…” option.
If that doesn’t work, you can get the GeoComply download. Sometimes, after completing this process, you may be prompted to re-download the plugin. Do a quick check whether your download was completed successfully.
You can do this by reviewing your downloads folder, but if you can’t find the GeoComply file there, then you need to use the download link above. If you’re still unsure about the installation process, this GeoComply troubleshooting video has excellent information:
Mac & GateKeeper
Mac iOS users can also get a download error because of GateKeeper. This program can block downloads and hinder geolocation processes. Luckily, there is a quick fix:
- Drag the GeoComply file to the Applications folder
- Open the GeoComply app
- A pop-up window will appear. You need to confirm that you want to open a file from an “Unidentified Developer.”
If you run into post-installation issues, you need to restart the GeoComply plugin. If you’re on a Mac, use the following path:
Menu – System Preferences – Player Location Check
PC & Geocomply Plugin
You can reboot the plugin by pressing on the lock icon, bottom-right, and selecting restart.
PC users can head over to the Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Del). Under Processes, select Restart Player Location.
One of the checks that GeoComply does is for VPN services. If your computer is using one, it will be blocked. So, you need to switch this off before launching the online casino.
Lastly, visit your casino help pages if you have any further problems with installing the plugin.
Troubleshooting Player Location Verification On iPhone
To get started on an iPhone, you need to give the gambling site permission to use location services.
- Tap ‘Allow’ when prompted to grant this permission.
- If you have issues with location services, you need to check your Wi-Fi and make sure you are connected.
- Also, check that “While using the app” or “Always” is selected for this setting -Settings-Privacy-Location Services-Casino App
- Outdated iOS versions can also cause issues with GeoComply. Make sure you’re running iOS 12.0 or higher. Check for the latest iOS version updates here: Settings – General – Software Update.
- If installation issues still persist, submit a support request through your casino.
Troubleshooting Player Location Verification On Android
To use the Android app, you also need to switch-on location settings.
- Head over to Apps – Settings – Location, and turn – on location services.
- If you encounter issues after turning in on-location services, return to the location menu and set the mode to ‘High Accuracy.’ Please note that some Android versions refer to the mode setting as Location Services.
- Make sure the casino is enabled and has appropriate permissions in the location menu. You may not be allowed to view this setting in all versions of Android.
- You may need to allow your Android device to use your precise location instead of an approximation. Navigate to Settings – Apps – Casinos – Permissions – More – All permissions, to set this value.
If problems with location verification still persist, submit a support request.