Over the years, online gamblers have witnessed the rise and fall of many popular payment methods. Ukash has been a favorite for gamers in the UK for the last decade, but those who’ve relied on its security and convenience won’t find the vouchers available anymore as of August 31, 2015. According to a message on the Ukash website, once that date arrives, Ukash will be officially taken over by Paysafecard.
Earlier this year, Ukash was acquired by the online payment giant, Skrill, who previously bought out Paysafecard in 2013. As such, Skrill has elected to phase Ukash out of the market by replacing the retail vouchers with its other fortified payment method.
Many customers were made aware of the change in previous months, but for those who missed the memo, the loss of a decade-old favorite may come as a bit of a shock.
The following Q&A should help ease some concerns.
When will Ukash Cease Operations?
According to data provided on the website, Paysafecard will formally take over as of August 31, 2015, at which time Ukash will complete its phasing out period. Users who still have a Ukash voucher with a balance will still have until October 31, 2015, to use up the remaining funds. Refunds are also available, under certain circumstances.
Can I Request a Ukash Refund?
So long as the owner of the voucher does not reside in Brazil or South Africa, where Reserve Bank regulations prohibit reimbursement, the website informs customers that “You can request a refund if your Ukash code is still valid and unused.”
Users are asked to complete the Consumer Refund Application Form and send it, along with the Ukash code receipt, to the address provided on the form. Refunds are generally available for up to 7 years after the voucher has been purchased, subject to Ukash Terms and Conditions.
Can All Ukash Users Switch to Paysafecard?
In the UK and many other regions, consumers who purchase Ukash vouchers to pay for online purchases and gaming website deposits will have access to Paysafecard, but for other users in areas like Ecuador, Ghana and Jordan, the loss of Ukash won’t come with a comparable replacement option from Skrill.
Logging onto the website from a discontinued country where Paysafecrd is not available brings up the following statement:
“Unfortunately, we are currently unable to offer you any comparable payment method after Ukash is discontinued.
“However, in the event that paysafecard becomes available in your country in the future, you will be able to find out about it at www.paysafecard.com.”
Paysafecard CEO Aims to Spread the Word
“The acquisition of Ukash has given us the opportunity to expand the choice for consumers wanting to make secure online payments,” said Udo Müller, who’s been with the company for 15 years and was appointed to Chief Executive Officer in May 2014.
“We have brought together the best of the prepaid technologies from both Ukash and paysafecard to give consumers a safe and easy way to make online payments and we are now embarking on a nationwide campaign to ensure the retailers and users are aware of the changes taking place.”