Arizona Officials Urge Responsible Super Bowl Betting and Online Gaming Awareness

the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) is reminding both residents and visitors to engage in legal and responsible wagering practices.

“The Super Bowl is an exciting event that brings communities together, but it’s essential to approach event wagering with caution and ability,” said ADG Director Jackie Johnson. She further emphasized the importance of using only licensed betting operators, stating, “Illegal gambling undermines public safety and the integrity of the game, while responsible betting practices help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.”

Understanding the Legal Framework of Sports Pools

Super Bowl betting often includes participation in sports pools, commonly known as “Super Bowl Squares.” While these pools are legal in Arizona, they must comply with the state’s social gambling regulations outlined in Arizona Law (A.R.S. § 13-3301(7)). According to these guidelines:

• Gambling cannot be operated as a business, meaning hosts cannot financially benefit unless they participate in the game.
• All collected money must be distributed among winners.
• Only individuals who enter the pool are eligible to win.
• Every participant must have an equal chance of winning.

Certain practices signal illegal gambling, such as requiring entry fees (including “suggested” or “voluntary” donations), keeping a percentage of the pool as an istrative fee, setting a minimum purchase requirement for participation, and permitting underage participants (under 21 years old).

Key Tips for Responsible Betting

With sports betting fully legalized in Arizona, understanding how to place bets responsibly is more important than ever. The American Gaming Association (AGA) promotes the Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.TM campaign, which outlines essential strategies for safe wagering:

• Set a Budget: Never wager more than you can afford to lose. Establish a betting limit and adhere to it.
• Know the Odds: Learn betting terminology such as parlays, over/under, and moneyline bets before placing a wager.
• Keep It Social: Gambling is meant for entertainment, not as a means of financial gain. Betting with friends and family can help keep the experience fun.
• Stay Composed: Whether you win or lose, maintaining good sportsmanship is crucial.
• Bet Legally: Always place wagers through licensed operators to ensure player protections. A full list of Arizona’s approved betting platforms is available on the ADG website.

Protecting Against Online Gaming Scams

In anticipation of the Super Bowl, the ADG is also raising awareness about online gaming fraud, particularly in light of Identity Theft Awareness Week. As online ments for gambling platforms increase, scammers are targeting unsuspecting s, often using deceptive branding and promotions to lure players into illegitimate gaming sites.

Illegal online casinos and sweepstakes often mimic legitimate platforms but operate without regulation, putting s at risk of identity theft and financial fraud. The ADG warns that disputes arising from these platforms cannot be resolved through regulatory intervention, leaving victims with little recourse for recovering lost funds.

Not all online sweepstakes and “free-to-play” games are legal in Arizona. These contests must avoid requiring players to risk or give something of value in exchange for potential winnings. To better understand compliance, the ADG has released guidance on legal gaming options. The department also recommends seeking independent legal counsel for further clarity on Arizona’s gambling laws.

Fraudulent gaming platforms often use aggressive marketing and misleading promotions to attract players. Common risks associated with these operations include:

• Financial loss due to fake gambling sites.
• Identity theft from shared personal or financial information.
• Scams involving fake prize fees or unpaid “winnings.”

How to Stay Safe When Gambling Online

To minimize the risk of fraud, the ADG advises the following precautions:

• Legitimacy: Confirm that a gaming platform is licensed and regulated in Arizona before participating.
• Be Wary of Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: Social media ads promising guaranteed wins or no-risk gambling are often scams.
• Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive financial details with unverified sources.
• Look for Consumer Protections: Licensed platforms offer responsible gaming resources, dispute resolution services, and helplines for problem gambling assistance.

If you or someone you know encounters fraudulent online gaming activities, you can report the incident to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office:

• Phoenix: (602) 542-5763
• Tucson: (520) 628-6648
• Statewide: (800) 352-8431

For identity theft concerns, report cases directly to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Before placing a wager, ensure you are using a state-approved operator. A comprehensive list of licensed casinos, event wagering platforms, and fantasy sports operators is available on the ADG’s official website. Just because a gambling app is accessible does not mean it is legally authorized.

By staying informed and making responsible choices, Arizona residents and visitors can enjoy the excitement of the Super Bowl while ensuring a safe and fair betting experience.

Source:

”ADG Urges Responsible and Legal Betting Ahead of Super Bowl LIX” Arizona Department of Gaming Press Release. February 03, 2025.

”ADG PSA: Tips for Safe and Responsible Online Gaming” Arizona Department of Gaming Press Release. January 29, 2025.