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LANSING – As we approach Super Bowl Sunday, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel cautions residents of potential scams, risks, and sometimes deceptive internet gaming sites.
“While the Super Bowl is meant to be fun, it’s important to slow down and be mindful if you choose to gamble this Sunday,” said Attorney General Nessel. “Set limits, stick to licensed platforms, and remember that betting should be a form of entertainment, not something that puts your finances at risk.”
Attorney General Nessel encourages Michigan residents to develop guidelines for when and how much to gamble if they are determined to participate in sports gambling. If gambling is a problem for you or someone in your life, please seek help through the Michigan Problem Gambling Help Line online or by calling 800-270-7117.
Michigan licensed internet sports betting platforms partner with Detroit and Tribal casinos to allow consumers to place bets through websites or mobile apps for a variety of sporting events. Use the following tips to protect yourself from predatory and misleading sports betting platforms:
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Research the online platform. Read reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot. Avoid reviews from sites that are connected to the sports betting industry.
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Read the fine print. Platforms sometimes require users to gamble their own money before accessing the advertised bonus. Not all bets count toward those promotions.
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Know the risks. Risk-free bets may not be what they seem. Some platforms are offering “risk-free bets” of $1,000 or more. Often, if a user loses their bets, they don’t get their money back. Instead, it becomes a credit that can only be used to gamble on that platform.
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Know the restrictions on accessing your account. Platforms reserve the right to restrict a user’s activity without warning — not just for suspicion of illegal conduct. Platforms have suspended users for having an “unfair advantage” or “irregular playing patterns.” Platforms have also been known to freeze accounts when someone is doing well or when trying to withdraw winnings.
If you plan to bet on the Super Bowl or other sporting events, check the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) website for a list of licensed internet sports betting providers and information on legal leagues and bets.
Residents can report illegal or suspicious gambling activity to the MGCB by phone at 888-314-2682 or via email. To report a scam, file a complaint or get additional information, contact the Michigan Department of Attorney General:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
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