The New York State Gaming Commission has initiated a new campaign aimed at raising awareness among residents regarding the risks associated with illegal online gambling. This initiative specifically targets offshore betting platforms, prediction markets, and sweepstakes-style casinos.
Entitled “Avoid Risky Bets,” the campaign seeks to inform New Yorkers about the dangers posed by unlawful gambling sites that operate without the oversight of state authorities or any consumer protections.
The commission pointed out that New Yorkers have access to various legal online wagering options, including sports betting through licensed operators, advance deposit wagering on horse racing, authorized charitable raffles, interactive fantasy sports, and lottery ticket purchases via approved channels.
However, it stressed that online casinos, offshore gambling websites, sweepstakes-style casino platforms, and prediction markets are illegal in New York State.
Commission Chairman Brian O’Dwyer stated, “Legitimate, lawful, regulated gaming offers fair wagers, player protections, responsible gaming measures, and societal benefits. In contrast, the illegal gambling market exploits unsuspecting individuals, including youth, who believe they are placing legitimate bets, benefiting only faceless and untraceable entities. Although they may appear similar, the distinction between a smart wager and a risky bet is clear.”
According to the commission, illegal gambling platforms frequently lack essential consumer protections such as dispute resolution mechanisms, anti-money laundering measures, identity verification processes, and responsible gaming tools. Officials also cautioned that some illegal operators allow betting on markets related to political violence, war, or insider-driven outcomes.
State regulators warned that these platforms could subject users to unfair betting practices, unpaid winnings, identity theft risks, and potential connections to organized crime.
Additionally, the commission expressed concerns regarding underage gambling. While legal sports betting in New York mandates that users be at least 21 years old, many offshore and prediction market platforms permit access at 18 and reportedly lack effective age-verification systems.
Governor Kathy Hochul previously instructed the commission to enhance efforts to prevent minors from accessing online betting applications and accounts as part of her 2026 State of the State agenda. “We need to do more to restrict access to online sports gambling so that our children are not caught in the web of addiction at a young age,” Hochul remarked in January.
Officials highlighted that, unlike regulated gaming, illegal gambling operators do not contribute tax revenue to schools, local governments, charitable organizations, or problem gambling services throughout the state.
The commission urged residents to report any suspected illegal gambling activities by filing complaints with the Gaming Commission, the New York State Attorney General’s Office, or the New York State Police.
This campaign is part of a broader initiative focused on responsible gaming, developed in collaboration with the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports and the New York Council on Problem Gambling through the state’s Responsible Play Partnership.