US Authorities Warn Against Unregulated Sports Betting Risks Nationwide

As football season intensifies, officials in the U.S. are warning sports bettors to avoid illegal and unregulated online casinos and sportsbooks due to increased risks such as fraud, identity theft, and financial loss. The IRS emphasizes using only sportsbooks licensed by state authorities, highlighting that many offshore sites mimic legitimate U.S. casinos but offer little recourse if problems arise. Arizona's Department of Gaming has reported a rise in complaints about unlicensed gambling operations, promoting responsible gaming resources and urging residents to report suspicious activities to protect consumers. In addition to online scams, law enforcement in India recently busted an online betting racket involving fake bank accounts and is investigating bank officials suspected of facilitating illegal transactions. Experts also caution about the dangers of sports betting addiction, which can lead to severe personal and financial consequences, stressing the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help. Overall, there is a strong call for consumers to engage only with regulated and legal betting platforms to ensure safety and accountability.