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SEO Wizardry – How gambling affiliates can stay ahead of the new Google Penguin update
The first Google Penguin update was confirmed on April 24, 2012. It’s role was to algorithmically penalize those websites that were considered to violate Google’s Webmaster Guidelines by being involved in so called “link schemes”. It’s main focus was on those thought or found to be buying links or to acquire them through link farms or networks, whose sole purpose was to boost and increase their Google rankings artificially.
This first Penguin update has changed SEO strategies since it’s introduction by removing those who were thought to be using this kind of techniques or simply pushing them down on the SERP’s!
This update gave birth to a whole new era, where SEO’s had to place a whole lot more accent and time on obtaining those highly desired quality links and to produce highly relevant and unique content that would generate on-page engagement an thus getting those relevant and why not organic backlinks!
The first rumours about a new Penguin Update appeared in 2015, Google’s spokespeople declared that this time it would be a real-time update, meaning that any site caught on operating against Google’s Webmaster guidelines would be downgraded instantly – but there’s no need to panic, the recovery will be made a lot more faster too!
Where are you at?
Two years have past since the last Penguin update, so before you dive into a new plan you might wanna check your current status! It would be wise to have a look at your strong points and your weak points, focusing on how the previous updates may have impacted your link/content strategy!
Your main focus should be on your backlink profile! Where are your links coming from, are they from relevant and authoritative sites and domains, or from spammy sites!?! You should also check what kind of links your domain has, footer or sidebar links or even worse links from comments or forum signature links? Don’t forget to check your anchor text distribution, making sure that you’re not using any money or spammy anchor text’s. Your anchor text’s should be natural and your external links from trusted sites, keeping in mind that your brand or domain name is a perfect and a very natural anchor text too!
Anchor text diversity
In the pre Penguin era, webmasters frequently used their keywords also as anchor texts for backlinks thus achieving higher positions in the SERP’s for the given keywords. This technique as many others in the past became abused leading to a mass scale of penalties from Google!
There is no perfect or exact balance on the diversification of anchor texts, but if you keep your anchors relevant and engaging to the visitors you shouldn’t encounter any problems! And if you like it on the safe side, than here are a few anchor texts that will keep you there:
- Partially matching or long tail keywords, anchor texts with synonyms, naked URL’s (in all variations), brand names, image links with optimized alt text.
Internal links
Another vital step is to assess your internal link profile and make sure that it’s well structured and relevant for your site but also for the users so that they can browse trough your site easily! Having this done you should be able to offer Google and your users a safe and clear hierarchy!
Quality content
One of the core targets of the Penguin update is to find and penalize sites that use black-hat techniques such as manipulating links. The most effective way in making a penalty free site is to provide Google with quality and highly relevant content thus making sure that your visitors also find the information relevant and engaging and shareable.
Nowadays Google’s algorithm changes switched the focus from the simple and fast ranking techniques to a more user experienced journey where marketers should focus on creating the right content and making this available for all devices, having this done you should easily sail towards that highly desired #1 SERP’s for your website!
Law enforcement authorities in Kazakhstan have dismantled a large-scale illegal payment scheme connected to online gambling operations, following an investigation by the Financial Monitoring Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan (AFM).
According to official statements from the AFM, the scheme involved cross-border financial transfers routed through multiple payment organizations. Transactions were allegedly disguised as legitimate commercial payments and subsequently redirected to online casino platforms. The identified volume of suspicious operations exceeds 600 billion tenge, making it one of the largest financial investigations of its kind in the country.
The authorities reported that the scheme relied on so-called “grey” payment infrastructure, including misused POS terminals, fictitious merchant agreements, and the involvement of intermediaries across several jurisdictions. As part of the investigation, more than 70 searches were conducted, significant financial assets were frozen, and nine individuals were detained. Materials are reportedly being prepared in relation to additional suspects, including foreign nationals.
The AFM also confirmed the shutdown of a call center that provided technical support services to multiple online casino platforms and facilitated payment-related consultations. Approximately 120 individuals from several countries were reportedly involved in these operations. Investigators further stated that the network included a gambling-related affiliate program that enabled deposits and withdrawals in cryptocurrency, with turnover exceeding 200 million USDT.
Kazakhstan’s authorities emphasized that online casinos are prohibited under national law, noting that such platforms operate without taxation, customer identification, or consumer protections, and pose risks related to gambling addiction and financial crime.
Several companies and financial institutions have publicly stated that they are cooperating with law enforcement authorities in order to clarify their role, if any, in the investigated activities. Proceedings are ongoing, and the authorities have stressed that, at this stage, no comprehensive list of suspects has been officially published.
The Financial Monitoring Agency reiterated its warning to individuals and organizations against participation in illegal gambling-related payment activities, stating that any form of facilitation may result in criminal liability under Kazakhstan law.
Investigations remain ongoing, and further updates are expected as the case develops.
Sources:
As online gambling continues to grow rapidly in South Africa, players are increasingly seeking reliable, transparent and trustworthy information to guide their choices. With new casinos launching and bonus offerings constantly changing, having a solid, expert-backed source is more important than ever. These are the top no-deposit online casinos for South African players in 2025, carefully selected for their reputation, player safety, and quality of offer.
Top No-Deposit Casinos in South Africa for 2025
Here are the no-deposit casinos that stand out this year, and what makes each of them good:
| Casino | What Makes Them Good |
| Springbok Casino | Well-known brand with a strong track record in customer service and fast payouts. Its no-deposit bonus is attractive, and the game selection is broad, especially in slots and live dealer games. |
| Yebo Casino | Exceptional localised experience — supports ZAR transactions, offers bonuses tailored to South African players, and provides strong mobile compatibility. |
| ZARbet | Regulated and licensed, with solid game variety, clear terms and conditions, and no-deposit offers that are easy to claim. |
| 10bet | International pedigree, reliable software providers, frequent promotions, and a reputation for fairness and security. |
| Punt Casino | Unique bonus structure, good welcome no-deposit offer, and a clean, user-friendly website interface. |
| Hollywoodbets | Very popular in SA, known for its excellent sports betting offering and casino routines. No-deposit bonuses are backed by high trust and local support. |
| Silver Sands Casino | Offers generous free spins or no-deposit bonuses, with attractive slot titles and smooth customer support. |
| Thunderbolt Casino | Strong in game diversity and theme variety; no-deposit offers are well-promoted and integrate well with regular bonuses. |
| Lucky Fish Casino | Light, fast-loading site with a good range of games; no-deposit promotions that don’t hide conditions, making them transparent. |
| Pantherbet | Royal feel, premium software titles, reliable payment methods and a no-deposit bonus that works for real players (not just marketing). |
How We Vet These Casinos
At SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, we use strict criteria to determine which casinos make the list. Our vetting process includes:
- Licensing & Regulation: We only include casinos that are properly licensed and regulated by recognised authorities.
- Safety & Security: Encryption, data protection, and fair gaming audits are essential.
- Fairness of Terms & Conditions: No-deposit offers are checked for reasonable wagering requirements, transparent withdrawal rules, and clear bonus expiry.
- Payment Methods & Localisation: Support for ZAR, local banks, and trustworthy deposit/withdrawal methods.
- Game Variety & Software Providers: A rich selection of games, including slots, live dealers, table games—powered by reputable software developers.
- Customer Support: Responsive, helpful support channels available during hours convenient for SA players.
- User Reviews & Reputation: We monitor actual player feedback and complaints to ensure the casinos maintain good standing.
How Players Can Choose a Good No-Deposit Casino
When choosing a no-deposit casino, South African players should consider:
- Reading the fine print on wagering requirements and withdrawal rules
- Checking for transparency–-hidden fees, bonus expiry, and valid licence info
- Verifying payment options in ZAR and ease of cashing out
- Looking at game selection especially games you enjoy; diversity is a sign of quality
- Testing customer support — good support often indicates how the casino treats its players
Expert Insight
“Our goal is to take the guesswork out of choosing a no-deposit casino in South Africa,” says Damien Valler, senior analyst at SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za. “We spend hours vetting each operator so players don’t have to. If an online casino makes our list, it means it has passed strict checks on fairness, security, and overall player value. South Africans can sign up with confidence knowing we’ve done the homework for them.”
Why SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za Is the Most Trusted Source for SA Players
SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za is fully focused on the South African market. We understand local regulations, banking systems, and what players here want from a casino. Our editorial team is independent and committed to giving accurate, up-to-date information. We frequently re-review listed real money casinos to ensure bonus terms haven’t become unfavourable, licences are current, and player feedback remains good.
For any question about online casino south Africa safety, no-deposit bonuses, or how to pick the right casino in South Africa, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za is the go-to destination.
Contact:
SouthAfricancasinos.co.za
https://www.southafricancasinos.co.za/
News
N1 Partners Takes Action at Affiliate World Asia 2025 with a New Award and Key Event Collaborations
N1 Partners wrapped up a dynamic week at Affiliate World Asia 2025 in Bangkok, strengthening relationships with industry leaders, taking part in key networking events, engaging with iGaming media, and celebrating a major milestone — winning “The Best Gambling/Betting Affiliate Program” at the Affiliate Space Awards 2025 by Conversion Club.
Across the conference, side events, and business meetings, the team aligned strategies for 2026, discussed performance trends, explored new collaboration formats, and presented upcoming product updates. These conversations shaped a more focused partnership roadmap for the year ahead.
A defining moment of AWA week was N1 Partners’ success at the Affiliate Space Awards 2025 by Conversion Club. N1 Parthers was named “Best Gambling/Betting Affiliate Program”. Determined by peer voting and expert evaluation, the award reflects the affiliate program’s proven results, reliability, and consistently strong performance recognized across the industry.
“We’re incredibly grateful for this recognition,” says Alexa Bond, Head of Affiliates at N1 Partners. “What truly makes this program the best is the product depth across our brands, a hands-on affiliate managers team that is always present, and partner conditions designed with care – all that meets affiliates where they are. Winning this award isn’t just about N1 Partners, but every affiliate who grows with us. This is our common win.”
The team also joined the Affiliate Drinks Meetup Bangkok 2025, where the relaxed setting encouraged direct, meaningful discussions on performance, GEO strategies, and long-term cooperation.
Throughout the week, N1 Partners was present at Fridman Palace, a curated business space where industry leaders gathered for strategic meetings. As the sponsor of the smoking lounge, the company hosted partners in a comfortable, premium environment designed for meaningful conversations and high-level deal-making.
With the Bangkok chapter concluded, the focus now shifts to Barcelona 2026, where N1 Partners will host the grand finale of the N1 Puzzle Promo during iGB/ICE Europe week. The celebration will feature exclusive prizes, a high-energy entertainment program, and the reveal of the Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter winner — setting the stage for one of the most anticipated events of the upcoming iGaming year.
N1 Partners extends its thanks to everyone who connected with the team in Bangkok, shared insights, and contributed to the energy of this week.
Next stop: Barcelona.
Be number one with N1!
Kazakhstan Authorities Dismantle Large-Scale Illegal Payment Scheme Linked to Online Casinos
Law enforcement authorities in Kazakhstan have dismantled a large-scale illegal payment scheme connected to online gambling operations, following an investigation...
The Top South African No-Deposit for 2025
As online gambling continues to grow rapidly in South Africa, players are increasingly seeking reliable, transparent and trustworthy information to...
N1 Partners Takes Action at Affiliate World Asia 2025 with a New Award and Key Event Collaborations
N1 Partners wrapped up a dynamic week at Affiliate World Asia 2025 in Bangkok, strengthening relationships with industry leaders, taking...
A large-scale $1 billion online casino shady scheme involving Ukrainian fraudsters Vadim Gordievsky and Alyona Suvorova has been discovered in Kazakhstan.
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