The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) and the Department of Public Safety are alerting Iowans to an increasing number of fraudulent online gambling websites falsely claiming to be licensed or spoofing casinos that are licensed in Iowa. In a growing trend, these deceptive platforms often appear on social media and other online channels, promoting enticing bonuses and claiming to be affiliated with Iowa’s regulated gaming industry.
With the start of the football season and high interest in sports wagering, the warning is particularly important. “IRGC is committed to making Iowa’s regulated gaming industry a safe and responsible form of entertainment that also benefits the state and local communities through employment opportunities and tax revenue. IRGC requires licensed operators to maintain rigorous compliance standards, responsible gaming practices and adhere to minimum age requirements for gambling. Licensees who violate those requirements face regulatory action,” said Tina Eick, IRGC Administrator. “In contrast, illegal operators are not subject to independent testing or player protection requirements and are a real risk to consumers. We urge Iowans to remain vigilant and avoid any suspicious activity to help protect themselves and others from these scams. Don’t give personal and financial information to operators who have no interest in following the law.”
Knowledge Points:
- Online Sports Wagering is Legal in Iowa: Sports wagering is legal in Iowa; however, the operator must be licensed.
- Online Casino Style Gambling is Illegal in Iowa: Iowa law does not allow for online casinos, slots or poker. Any website or advertisement offering such activities within the state is not authorized or licensed by the IRGC and should be treated with suspicion.
- Scammers Exploit Trust: Fraudulent sites often use official logos and branding to appear legitimate or spoof real Iowa casinos and lure individuals into providing personal and financial information.
- Financial and Personal Risks: Engaging with these fraudulent sites can lead to significant financial losses, identity theft, and exposure to malicious content.
- Iowa Does Not Allow Wagering on Credit. Per Iowa law, a licensed casino operator or sports wagering operator shall not accept a credit card for wagering. Gambling with crypto currency is also not currently allowed. If a gambling website asks for your credit card or allows you to play with crypto currency, that is an indication that the site may not be legitimate.
What You Can Do:
- Verify Before You Click: Always ensure that any online gambling platform is officially licensed and regulated. You can wager on sports online, but casino style gaming and poker are only permissible in person at licensed casinos and racetracks. To verify an operator is licensed and the legitimate website associated with that licensed operator, check the IRGC website: https://irgc.iowa.gov/licensing-information.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about the risks of online gambling scams and share this information with friends and family to help protect the community.
- Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM): This is a free service used by most major mobile carriers to block and investigate spam texts.
- Local Law Enforcement: If you feel threatened or if money has been stolen, contact your local police department or sheriff’s office to file a report.
Iowans are reminded to wager responsibly and within their means. Each licensed sports wagering app is required to have tools available within the app to allow individuals to set limits for themselves. Additional options for self-exclusion are available at all licensed casinos and on the Commission's website at irgc.iowa.gov. If you or a loved one need help, free and confidential support is available through 1-800-BETS OFF and yourlifeiowa.org.
About the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission:
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission is responsible for regulating and overseeing licensed casino gambling, sports wagering, daily fantasy sports and simulcast wagering in the state. The Commission administers the laws and rules for gambling and wagering in Iowa in order to ensure the integrity of licensees and their operations, maintain public confidence in regulated gambling and wagering activities in Iowa, and promote economic development for the citizens of Iowa.