1win in Ukraine: Illegal operations and links to Russia

The betting platform 1win is actively operating in Ukraine despite the absence of any licence, rendering its activities illegal.

 Officially, this operator has no right to provide services within the country, yet it continues to bypass blocks using VPNs and mirrors, with the website even hosting instructions on how to do so.

Brand history and scale of operations

The platform was founded in 2016 under the name FirstBet. Following a rebrand in 2018, it became 1win and has been actively promoting its services to Ukrainian users since 2021. Its arsenal includes thousands of slot machines, bets on dozens of sports, and a casino, all operating without any state regulation.

Why is this dangerous?

1. Losses for the state

The lack of a licence means that Ukraine is losing tax revenue from the platform's activities. Estimates suggest this amounts to millions of hryvnia monthly, funds that could have been directed towards social needs, defence, or economic support.

2. No guarantees for players

Players using 1win's services are not protected by law. In the event of fraud, account blocking, or non-payment of winnings, there is nowhere to turn. In 2023, a leak of users' personal data occurred, further confirming the high level of risk.

3. Suspicious links with Russia

Despite the legal ban, the platform continues to operate within Russia, using the same schemes to bypass blocks. Furthermore:
— The official website lists a Russian phone number for contact.
— Primary marketing is targeted at a Russian-speaking audience.
— Continued operations in Russia may indicate support from authorities or security services.

4. Complex offshore structure

According to ProPublica data, 1win is linked to offshore companies, and its official beneficial owner is MFI Investments Limited (United Kingdom). The listed director is Cristiana Georgiu, although experts suspect this is a nominee figure.

5. International scandal

In Kazakhstan, 1win is already on the wanted list, confirming its dubious reputation not only in Ukraine but also beyond the country's borders.

1win is an illegal operator that operates in violation of the law, may be linked to the aggressor state, bears no responsibility towards players, and poses a threat to both users and Ukraine's national security.