FBI warns US Bettors as Illegal Gambling Persists.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a nationwide warning urging American bettors to avoid illegal and offshore gambling platforms, as legal sports betting continues to expand across the United States. While 39 states and the District of Columbia have legalised some form of sports wagering, federal officials say unregulated markets remain widespread and dangerous.
In a public service announcement dated 17 December, the FBI warned that illegal sportsbooks and online gaming sites pose serious risks to both consumers and the wider economy. The agency said bettors using unlicensed platforms may unknowingly fund organised crime and expose themselves to fraud, extortion, and violence.
The scale of the issue remains significant. Estimates cited by the FBI from the American Gaming Association suggest Americans wager more than $670 billion annually through illegal and unregulated gambling channels. These include offshore sportsbooks, online casino-style games, and unlicensed gaming machines.
Federal authorities cautioned that many offshore platforms actively target US players while concealing their overseas operations. Although some sites may be legal in other jurisdictions, the FBI stressed that they still operate illegally within the United States depending on state law. Unlike licensed operators, these platforms are not required to meet US consumer protection standards.
The FBI also highlighted the connection between illegal gambling and organised crime. Criminal groups reportedly use unlawful betting operations to generate revenue that can be diverted into other illicit activities, including trafficking and financial crimes.
Beyond broader criminal concerns, the bureau warned of personal risks to bettors, including lost deposits, unpaid winnings, and potential legal exposure. Consumers were advised to check state regulations and use only licensed sportsbooks. The FBI encouraged reporting suspected illegal gambling through the Internet Crime Complaint Center as part of its enforcement efforts.
