PHOENIX, AZ – The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) is participating in the first international Illegal Gambling Awareness Week (IGAW), taking place Nov. 9-13. Organized by the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR), the initiative encourages consumers to verify that wagering platforms are licensed where they play.
While regulated event wagering and fantasy sports contests are legal in Arizona, ADG is warning consumers about unregulated operators and digital platforms that advertise themselves as legal in the state. Over the past two years, the department has issued multiple cease-and-desist orders against operators conducting business without proper licensure, responsible gaming safeguards and age verification.
ADG said consumers using unregulated platforms may face risks including fraud, identity theft, loss of funds, difficulty withdrawing winnings and accounts being frozen without explanation, with limited avenues for recourse.
“A sleek website and a familiar logo can easily fool bettors into believing a platform is legitimate,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “When Arizonans deposit funds on unlicensed, unregulated platforms, they lose all consumer protections. There is no guarantee you will get paid your winnings, personal and financial data may be exposed to fraud, and these platforms operate outside the law. Our priority is ensuring Arizonans can make informed choices, know how to verify their platform before placing a bet, and play responsibly.”