In the ever-evolving world of payments and online gambling, the line between innovation and exploitation can sometimes blur. A recent LinkedIn article published under the “Scam Alerts” series sheds light on the enigmatic operations of PayAlma and AlmaBet, two brands that have raised questions about transparency and ethical practices in high-risk industries.
This article reflects on those findings, diving deeper into the risks posed by such operations and emphasizing the need for vigilance among merchants, players, and regulators.
What We Know About Alma Brands
The “Scam Alerts” post details the curious case of PayAlma, a payment gateway registered under Palmex Group Inc. in Canada. While boasting FINTRAC registration, its professional presence appears limited, with only three employees listed on LinkedIn. Even more concerning, only one employee shows consistent activity, leaving a gap in transparency and accountability.
AlmaBet, the associated gambling platform, operates with an Anjouan license, a jurisdiction often linked to low regulatory oversight. The LinkedIn article suggests that AlmaBet may serve as a proxy to acquire merchant IDs (MIDs), later aggregated by PayAlma to provide payment solutions to unregulated gambling sites.
Such an arrangement raises critical questions about the ethical use of payment infrastructures and whether these brands align with industry standards.
The Risks of Unregulated Operations
The LinkedIn article hints at a possible data exploitation scheme, where sensitive information collected via payment transactions may be used for purposes beyond the merchant’s or player’s consent. This could include:
- Targeting players for gambling promotions on other platforms.
- Manipulating user behavior for financial gain.
Additionally, these operations risk exposing merchants to regulatory violations, especially if their funds or services are tied to unregulated or illegal gambling activities.
Unanswered Questions About Leadership
The investigation further uncovers the role of key individuals associated with these brands. Notably:
- Yurii Lazarev, listed as PayAlma’s Sales Manager, has shown no LinkedIn activity for several months.
- Anshuman Dhama, another representative, actively engages with events like the iFX EXPO Dubai 2025, representing AlmaBet rather than PayAlma.
The connection between these individuals and their overlapping roles adds a layer of complexity, especially when paired with whispers about a potential hidden figure, Mrs. Rathore, allegedly steering operations from the shadows.
Merchant and Player Implications
Reflecting on the details shared in the original LinkedIn article, it becomes evident that such opaque operations can have far-reaching consequences:
- Merchants risk partnering with entities that may put their funds or reputations at risk. Financial regulators are increasingly scrutinizing businesses tied to unregulated gambling or high-risk activities, which could result in account terminations or fines.
- Players may fall victim to targeted exploitation, ranging from unsolicited gambling offers to potential misuse of their financial data.
Lessons for the Industry
The case of PayAlma and AlmaBet underscores the importance of due diligence in the payment and gambling ecosystems. Here are some key takeaways:
- Verify Professional Presence: A lack of visible leadership or LinkedIn activity can indicate deeper issues with transparency and accountability.
- Investigate Licenses: Operating under jurisdictions known for lax oversight, like Anjouan, should prompt further scrutiny.
- Understand Data Practices: Merchants and players alike must question how their data is being collected, stored, and used.
- Push for Accountability: Regulators and industry stakeholders need to hold platforms to higher standards, ensuring ethical practices are maintained.
A Call for Transparency
While the original LinkedIn post raises serious questions about Alma Brands, it also serves as a rallying cry for the payment and gambling industries to prioritize transparency and integrity. This isn’t just about one company or platform—it’s about safeguarding the trust that underpins these industries.
Merchants and players must arm themselves with knowledge, investigate partnerships thoroughly, and demand clarity from the companies they engage with. Only by shining a light on hidden operations can we ensure the integrity of the systems that power global commerce.
Final Thought
The story of PayAlma and AlmaBet reminds us that the lack of transparency often hides deeper issues. Whether you’re a merchant looking for a payment partner or a player engaging with online platforms, remember: if something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth investigating.