PHOENIX — With the Super Bowl approaching, Attorney General Kris Mayes is warning Arizonans to be cautious of sports betting scams that could cost them their winnings—or even their personal information.
“For those participating in legal sports betting, it’s crucial to be on the lookout for fraudsters trying to scam you,” said Mayes. “I urge Arizonans to educate themselves and take precautions to avoid falling victim to a sports betting scam this Super Bowl Sunday.”
Illegal sportsbooks often fail to meet regulatory standards designed to ensure fair play, protect consumer funds, and safeguard personal and financial data.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Check the sportsbook’s location: Many illegal operators are based outside the U.S., leaving bettors with no legal recourse if a dispute arises.
- Question large bonuses or incentives: While many gambling sites offer promotions, scammers often use exaggerated rewards to lure in victims.
- Be wary of pop-up ads and spam messages: Instead of reacting to unsolicited gambling ads, verify an operator’s legitimacy through official sources.
- Beware of “risk-free” betting claims: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
Tips for Safe Betting
- Use only licensed sportsbooks: The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) provides a list of approved operators on its website.
- Understand withdrawal risks: Scammers may create fake platforms that show deposits but block withdrawals with fake technical issues.
- Never share personal information with unlicensed sites.
- Read the fine print carefully before placing bets.
Reporting and Resources
Suspicious sports betting activity can be reported to the Arizona Department of Gaming at (602) 255-3886 or [email protected]. Additional guidance on responsible gaming and fraud prevention is available on the department’s website.
For those struggling with gambling issues, confidential help is available through the Arizona Department of Gaming’s helpline at 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783), via text at “NEXTSTEP” to 53342, or through an online chat feature on the ADG website.
Consumers who believe they have been victims of fraud can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office by visiting the Attorney General’s website or calling (602) 542-5763 in Phoenix, (520) 628-6648 in Tucson, or (800) 352-8431 outside the metro areas.
