Arizona Warns Gamblers to Avoid Illegal Websites

Arizona Department of Gaming Issues Warning During Responsible Gaming Education Month

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has alerted residents to exercise caution when choosing gambling websites. In recognition of Responsible Gaming Education Month, the department emphasized the importance of avoiding unlicensed or offshore gambling platforms.

Risks of Using Unregulated Gambling Websites

According to the ADG, illegal gambling sites are not authorized to operate within Arizona and pose significant dangers to users, including financial and personal risks. The department has received complaints from players about frozen accounts when attempting withdrawals, unclear terms, and unaddressed grievances.

ADG’s Stand on Licensed vs. Illegal Gambling Operators

The ADG clarified that it cannot oversee illegal gambling websites and strongly encourages players to engage only with state-licensed operators. Jackie Johnson, director of the ADG, highlighted the lack of essential consumer protections on unregulated platforms, stating that these sites fail to provide responsible gaming measures, age verification, and safeguard consumers, thereby putting Arizona gamblers at risk.

Highlights from Arizona Gambling Authorities

Elise Mikkelson, director of the Division of Problem Gambling, echoed these concerns, explaining that licensed operators are mandated to implement safeguards to protect players, which are absent on illegal sites, making users more vulnerable to harm.

Protective Measures and Limitations

Mikkelson also pointed out that Arizona has taken significant steps to protect gamblers, including the state’s self-exclusion program, which boasts over 11,000 participants who have voluntarily barred themselves from gambling activities.

However, this protective measure does not extend to offshore and illegal gambling websites, leaving some vulnerable individuals exposed to the most harmful gambling environments.