Online scam poses threat to Missouri's online gambling market
Warning issued in Missouri over online gambling scams
With the anticipation of legal sports betting coming to Missouri in the fall, a nationwide scam has cropped up within the state. The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) has issued a warning about fraudulent online gambling platforms masking as legal operators.
Fake operators are tricking Missourians by utilizing images and branding elements of legitimate casinos in the state to promote their newly established illegal online casinos. However, as of now, online casino gambling in Missouri remains illegal. Any announcements regarding legal online gambling in the state should be viewed with extreme skepticism, according to the Commission.
Despite omitting specific brands and names, the MGC underlined that such scams jeopardize not only the financial security of players but also the credibility of Missouri's regulated gaming sector.
Missouri residents encountering an unlicensed operator claiming to be legitimate can report the incident to the Federal Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Users are also encouraged to capture screenshots of the shady websites, apps, advertisements, or related materials for further proof.
Be wary of unlicensed gambling operators
The primary concern for consumers using unregulated websites is that there's no mechanism to address complaints in case of issues arising. The MGC cautions that even platforms claiming to be licensed may be unregulated, meaning that the Commission will be unable to lend assistance if conflicts or complaints arise.
Much like in other states, Missouri provides a list of all authorized fantasy sports, charitable bingo, and casino operators on its gaming commission's website. The list, alongside complaint filing options and other relevant information, can be easily accessed.
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Remember, it's crucial to refrain from patronizing unregulated offshore sites. These platforms lack the protection of Missouri law and U.S. consumer protection standards. Although there are legal alternatives such as social and sweepstakes casinos, regulated online casinos and sports betting platforms are currently unavailable in Missouri.
If you stumble upon a platform that promises legal online casino services in Missouri, treat it as a scam and report it promptly. Always be vigilant when it comes to online gambling affairs and take necessary precautions to preserve your financial stability. The Missouri Gaming Commission commits itself to shielding residents by ensuring legal gambling operations maintain a strong reputation and inspire trust and confidence.
- The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) has warned Missourians about fraudulent online gambling platforms masquerading as legal operators.
- These fake operators are using images and branding elements of legitimate casinos in Missouri to promote their illegal online casinos.
- As of now, online casino gambling in Missouri remains illegal despite the anticipation of legal sports betting in the fall.
- The MGC underlines that such scams not only jeopardize the financial security of players but also the credibility of Missouri's regulated gaming sector.
- Users encountering an unlicensed operator claiming to be legitimate should report the incident to the Federal Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and capture screenshots of the suspicious website or related materials for further proof.
- The MGC advises consumers to avoid patronizing unregulated offshore sites as they lack protection of Missouri law and U.S. consumer protection standards.
- The Missouri Gaming Commission is committed to protecting residents by ensuring that legal gambling operations maintain a strong reputation and inspire trust and confidence.
