ROCHESTER, N.Y. — With the Super Bowl just days away, millions of Americans are expected to place bets on the game. Attorney General Letitia James is warning New Yorkers about online prediction markets — platforms that allow people to bet on the outcomes of sports, politics or other events.
The state says some of these sites operate without oversight from the New York Gaming Commission and may not offer basic consumer protections.
That can include safeguards like age verification, tools to help people struggling with gambling, and restrictions on misleading advertising. The Attorney General is urging people to make sure any platform they use is licensed and to avoid risking money they can’t afford to lose.
What You Need To Know
New York’s Attorney General warns that some online betting sites are unregulated and lack safety protections
Mobile betting has grown rapidly, with most profits coming from frequent bettors at higher risk for gambling problems
State officials say bettors should only use licensed platforms or risk violating New York law
“Mobile betting is the primary form of sports betting — once the shackles of non-legalization came off, it’s allowed the actual products to thrive,” said Jeremy Mitchell Losak, associate professor in the Department of Sport Analytics at Syracuse University.
Convenience is a big reason sports betting has grown so quickly. Experts also say most profits come from a small group of high-frequency bettors — people who may be more at risk of developing gambling problems.
State officials say unregulated platforms may not have the same tools in place to protect those users.
They also warn that promoting or operating unlicensed sports betting in New York could violate state law.
If you plan to bet on the Super Bowl, state leaders say make sure the platform you’re using is licensed and legitimate.
Help is available through the New York Council on Problem Gambling at their 24-hour helpline: 1-877-846-7369, or by texting HOPENY (467369).