Phoenix (Nov. 9, 2026) – The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) today announced its participation in the first international Illegal Gambling Awareness Week (IGAW), running November 9–13, 2026. Organized globally by the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR), the coordinated public education initiative highlights a vital message for consumers and media outlets alike: Before you bet, check whether the platform is licensed where you play.
While regulated event wagering (sports betting) and fantasy sports contests are legal in Arizona, unregulated operators and digital platforms continue to aggressively target Arizona residents. Many of these operations deceive consumers by falsely advertising themselves as “legal in Arizona” across digital ads, affiliate marketing networks, and news content.
Over the past two years, ADG has issued multiple cease-and-desist orders against unregulated operators conducting business without proper licensure, responsible gaming safeguards, and age verification. Players may be exposed to fraud, identity theft, and loss of funds with limited avenues for recourse. Common issues Arizona consumers have reported include unfair or misleading terms, difficulty withdrawing winnings, and accounts being frozen without explanation, often after a withdrawal request.
“A sleek website and a familiar logo can easily fool bettors into believing a platform is legitimate,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “When Arizonans deposit funds on unlicensed, unregulated platforms, they lose all consumer protections. There is no guarantee you will get paid your winnings, personal and financial data may be exposed to fraud, and these platforms operate outside the law. Our priority is ensuring Arizonans can make informed choices, know how to verify their platform before placing a bet, and play responsibly.”
Through IAGR’s tool, www.checkbeforeyouplay.org, consumers can verify whether an online gambling site is licensed before placing a wager. Additionally, Arizona consumers can confirm an operator’s authorization to operate in Arizona using tools like gaming.az.gov/checkyourbet. If you suspect an illegal gaming operation, report it directly to the Department at gaming.az.gov or contact the Arizona Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
For more information and b-roll, you can visit: Check Your Bet: gaming.az.gov/checkyourbet Responsible Gaming: gaming.az.gov/responsiblegaming and Division of Problem Gambling: problemgambling.az.gov.
Media Contact
Jeanne Rohrer
Communications Manager & Public Information Officer
Arizona Department of Gaming
Phone: 602-913-4667
Email: JRohrer@azgaming.gov
