The Maine Gambling Control Unit issued a warning and reminder Monday about illegal gambling websites and apps operating in the state.Online sports wagering, fantasy sports games and advance deposit wagering are legal in Maine, but online casino-style games such as slots, blackjack and roulette for real money are strictly prohibited in the state. The GCU says “numerous unregulated entities” continue to target Maine residents, offering iGaming opportunities. Officials say these operations are based in other states or countries and often include sites that appear legitimate but lack any regulatory oversight in Maine. These unlicensed platforms include, but are not limited to, certain “sweepstakes” or “social casino” sites that offer real-money payouts, coin-titled substitutes, dual-currency systems, material prizes or gift cards. The Gambling Control Unit says it has not licensed any online casino, iGaming or sweepstakes sites. The unit says anyone who chooses to use unlicensed platforms does so at their own risk and that the GCU cannot provide assistance or intervention in cases of disputes regarding winnings or other account issues arising from participation in illegal iGaming. Licensed online fantasy contests, advance deposit wagering and sports wagering operators undergo scrutiny and regulation by the GCU designed to protect consumers and ensure fair play. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Resources for responsible gaming and problem gambling support can be found on the Gambling Control Unit website, including links to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention website or by calling 211 or the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.
The Maine Gambling Control Unit issued a warning and reminder Monday about illegal gambling websites and apps operating in the state.
Online sports wagering, fantasy sports games and advance deposit wagering are legal in Maine, but online casino-style games such as slots, blackjack and roulette for real money are strictly prohibited in the state.
The GCU says “numerous unregulated entities” continue to target Maine residents, offering iGaming opportunities. Officials say these operations are based in other states or countries and often include sites that appear legitimate but lack any regulatory oversight in Maine. These unlicensed platforms include, but are not limited to, certain “sweepstakes” or “social casino” sites that offer real-money payouts, coin-titled substitutes, dual-currency systems, material prizes or gift cards.
The Gambling Control Unit says it has not licensed any online casino, iGaming or sweepstakes sites. The unit says anyone who chooses to use unlicensed platforms does so at their own risk and that the GCU cannot provide assistance or intervention in cases of disputes regarding winnings or other account issues arising from participation in illegal iGaming.
Licensed online fantasy contests, advance deposit wagering and sports wagering operators undergo scrutiny and regulation by the GCU designed to protect consumers and ensure fair play.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Resources for responsible gaming and problem gambling support can be found on the Gambling Control Unit website, including links to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention website or by calling 211 or the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.