Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul warns Illinois residents of the risks surrounding sports betting

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month — and also happens to be the month when the NCAA Tournament for men and women’s college basketball is held. Raoul is encouraging fans who are filling out brackets and thinking about placing money on their favorite teams to be aware of the risks of unlicensed operators.

By Elizabeth Hess March 19, 2025 9:06 am

Metro Servicesmetrocreativeconnection.comRaoul is encouraging fans who are filling out brackets and thinking about placing money on their favorite teams to be aware of the risks of unlicensed operators.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month — and also happens to be the month when the NCAA Tournament for men and women’s college basketball is held. Raoul is encouraging fans who are filling out brackets and thinking about placing money on their favorite teams to be aware of the risks of unlicensed operators.

Raoul said that certain betting apps and websites are allowed in Illinois. But operators must be licensed with the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) and remain in compliance with state regulators. You can find the list of licensed sport betting organizations in Illinois here.

Raoul is encouraging March Madness fans to follow these tips before placing a bet:

Check to make sure the operator you are considering holds a valid Illinois license by using the Illinois Gaming Board’s online licensee list.
Do your research. Check websites like the Better Business Bureau and search using the company’s name and “scam,” or read reviews on gambling forums.
Beware of suspicious texts/emails inviting you to participate in gambling, especially if sent from unfamiliar sources. Messages could be coming from scammers trying to steal your money and personal data.
Beware of fake websites. Scammers may use ads and sponsored links to trick you into visiting their websites, so double check to ensure you typed the name of the right website.
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of suspicious bonuses or similar offers.
Read the fine print of promotional offers to make sure there are not hidden costs or obligations.
Be aware that state law prohibits Illinois residents from betting on Illinois collegiate teams, regardless of whether wagers are placed using online or app-based sportsbooks or in person.

Illinois residents struggling with an addiction to gambling can contact the Illinois Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER, or by texting “ILGAMB” to 833234. Those struggling can also sign up for the IGB’s Self-Exclusion Program to prevent themselves from being able to gamble. If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, Raoul said you can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s website or the Illinois Gaming Board.