There has been a rise in fake websites posing as real casinos in Arizona. The ADG has stepped in to issue a consumer protection alert. Online casinos are illegal in Arizona, but brick-and-mortar sites are operational.
The scams use the names of the real casinos and pose as their online versions. Five tribal casinos have reported their names being used; Casino Arizona, Desert Diamond, Gila River, Talking Stick near Phoenix, and Casino del Sol outside Tucson.
The fraudulent platforms advertise on social media, often using the names and logos of the real casinos. They often promise big bonuses and guaranteed wins to lure players in. “If it’s too good to be true, it’s a red flag,” the ADG warned and urged players to verify operators through their official website.
Things to look out for include alternative URL endings to genuine websites (e.g. .net when the real site is .com). In addition, mobile apps with slight misspellings of the real casinos, and offers of guaranteed returns.
Residents can also report any scams through the website. The agency states that they have recently received a “flood of complaints”.
Legal online casinos could offer protection
In states where online casinos are legal, such as Michigan or New Jersey, consumers are protected. However, Arizona has no legal framework, which leaves players on their own.
Not all sites offering gaming fall outside of the law, however. Sweepstakes casinos offer a legal alternative to real casinos. Players in Arizona can use sites such as Stake.us Casino, WOW Vegas, and Crown Coins Casino. A host of crypto casinos can also be accessed in the state.
Users must be vigilant to tell the difference between these alternatives and the scams. A legal framework could help with that and also bring in revenue.
Online sports betting is legal in the state, and it is a booming business. In 2024, online sports betting tax revenue was $112.4 million.
Tax revenue from online casinos could be even higher. New Jersey, for instance, levies a rate of 15% on its legal online casinos. In 2024, that brought in approximately $358 million.
Despite the tax benefits, legalizing online casinos is likely to be a difficult process. Many other states have stalled in their efforts to pass legislation. Wyoming, Indiana, and Arkansas have all failed to progress bills this year to make online casinos legal.
One major factor is that the tribes who own the real casinos are reluctant to open up to competition online. Many people have an association that casinos are exclusive to tribes. In Arizona, scammers are using this fact and exploiting people.
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