State warning residents about illegal gambling platforms

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The Department of Consumer Protection and Attorney General William Tong are warning about the risks of illegal gambling operators, which target consumers by posing as legitimate gaming platforms.

Illegal platforms are targeting consumers especially with the upcoming NFL and college football seasons.

There are only three gaming operators approved to offer internet gaming in Connecticut – DraftKings, FanDuel and Play Sugarhouse.

The state said it is aware of numerous illegal offshore gambling businesses soliciting consumers to place wagers via their online platforms. These illegal gambling websites are not licensed to accept wagers within the state of Connecticut, and create a risk for users who may not realize these companies do not comply with state regulations created to protect consumers’ personal information and money.

“Like anything, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. These illegal platforms will make promises of better odds, higher payouts and out-of-this-world sign up bonuses allegedly endorsed by celebrity athletes just to entice consumers,” said DCP Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli. “And while their platforms might look legitimate, they are illegal and not subject to regulation and inspection by the state. Consumers are putting their personal information and money at risk by using these platforms. If you choose to engage in gaming activities, do so responsibly and legally.”

These illegal offshore gambling websites often call potential patrons directly and use high pressure sales tactics to get them to make a deposit and place wagers. They tell patrons it is legal to place a bet on these sites from Connecticut when it is not, and there is no guarantee that consumers who place wagers on these platforms will receive their winnings.

“There are only three legal, regulated gaming operators in Connecticut—Draft Kings, FanDuel and Play Sugarhouse,” said Tong. “Any other site soliciting bets is illegal and unregulated and your money and personal information may not be protected. If you play, play responsibly. Please report any illegal gambling to the Department of Consumer Protection.”

To avoid detection, these sites often use third-party vendors to hide the payments from a patron’s bank, which is obligated to stop financial transactions involving illegal gambling operations.

Consumers who are aware of illegal gambling businesses marketing their services in Connecticut should report it by emailing dcp.gaming@ct.gov.