Iowa officials warn: scam gambling sites are on the rise this football season

State regulators are warning Iowans about a rise in fraudulent online gambling websites that mimic legitimate casinos or falsely claim to be licensed in the state.

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) and the Iowa Department of Public Safety said the deceptive platforms are increasingly surfacing on social media and other online channels, often promising large bonuses to lure bettors.

The alert comes at the start of the football season, when sports wagering typically surges.

“IRGC is committed to making Iowa’s regulated gaming industry a safe and responsible form of entertainment that also benefits the state and local communities through employment opportunities and tax revenue,” IRGC Administrator Tina Eick said in a statement. “IRGC requires licensed operators to maintain rigorous compliance standards, responsible gaming practices and adhere to minimum age requirements for gambling. Licensees who violate those requirements face regulatory action.

“In contrast, illegal operators are not subject to independent testing or player protection requirements and are a real risk to consumers. We urge Iowans to remain vigilant and avoid any suspicious activity to help protect themselves and others from these scams. Don’t give personal and financial information to operators who have no interest in following the law.”

What’s legal in Iowa

Sports wagering is legal in Iowa, but only through licensed operators overseen by the IRGC. Online casinos, slots and poker remain illegal. Any website offering those activities is not authorized by the state.

Licensed operators must follow strict compliance standards, provide responsible gaming tools, and enforce minimum age requirements. By contrast, fraudulent operators often exploit official logos and branding to appear credible, and may attempt to collect credit card information or promote cryptocurrency gambling — both of which are not permitted under Iowa law.

“Per Iowa law, a licensed casino operator or sports wagering operator shall not accept a credit card for wagering,” according to the IRGC. “Gambling with crypto currency is also not currently allowed. If a gambling website asks for your credit card or allows you to play with crypto currency, that is an indication that the site may not be legitimate.”

Risks to consumers

Officials said engaging with illegal gambling sites can lead to financial losses, identity theft and exposure to malicious content.

To avoid scams, Iowans are urged to:

Resources for help

Iowans struggling with gambling are encouraged to use self-exclusion tools available through licensed apps and casinos. Free and confidential support is also available by calling 1-800-BETS OFF or visiting yourlifeiowa.org.

The IRGC regulates Iowa’s casino gambling, sports wagering, daily fantasy sports and simulcast wagering. The commission said it is committed to protecting the integrity of gaming in Iowa while ensuring it continues to benefit local communities through jobs and tax revenue.

Comments: (319) 398-8499; tom.barton@thegazette.com