Arizona regulator issues warning over sweepstakes and casino operators
Arizona Department of Gaming reminds players in the state the authority is unable to resolve complaints against unlicensed platforms
The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has urged players in the Grand Canyon State to exercise caution when it comes to betting with sweepstakes operators.
In a statement issued during Identity Theft Awareness Week 2025, the regulator reminded players to take care when sharing their personal and financial information.
The ADG warned that only certain free-to-play games are legal in the state, with online casinos and sweepstakes platforms offering services without a license.
The organization also reiterated that it is unable to resolve any disputes players have with black market operators.
An ADG statement read: “Illegal online casinos and sweepstakes platforms present themselves as legitimate platforms, aiming to exploit players by offering illegitimate or illegal gaming services.
“However, many of these operations are not legal or regulated, leaving users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft, and other serious risks.
“Due to their unregulated nature, ADG is unable to resolve complaints and disputes arising from unregulated and illegal gaming sites, leaving victims with little to no chance of recovering lost funds.
“In light of these developments, the Arizona Department of Gaming urges residents to verify the legitimacy of any online gaming platform before engaging in play.”
The ADG highlighted the main dangers of betting with illegal sweepstakes casinos as financial loss through fake platform or fraudulent prize fees as well as identity theft as a result of sharing confidential information.
The regulator also warned players may be vulnerable to false claims of unpaid taxes or fees tied to sweepstakes winnings.
ADG urged players to check whether a platform is licensed before they place a bet, be wary of social media promotions that reference guaranteed wins or no-risk gaming, and to avoid sharing personal data with unverified sources.
Bettors were also told to look for websites which offered resources for dispute resolution, self-exclusion, and responsible gaming.
The statement added: “With advertisements for online casinos and gaming platforms proliferating on social media, scammers are targeting unsuspecting individuals to steal personal information and financial assets.
“By staying vigilant and informed, Arizonans can better protect themselves from fraud and identity theft.”