The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) has written to news and media outlets in the state urging them not to publicise unlicensed sports betting websites.
Writing in an open letter, DGE director David Rebuck said unlicensed sites lack consumer protections, integrity protocols and money laundering controls, which in turn puts players’ safety at risk.
As such, the DGE said news and media outlets should only source information from websites that are licensed either in New Jersey or another regulated state.
The regulator advised outlets to limit any discussions on wagering odds for an event when there is no authorised source available. Outlets were also urged to avoid including a hyperlink to unlicensed sites as consumers could use this link to access illegal gambling.
If an unlicensed site must be mentioned in an article, the outlet should include a statement that the site does not hold a licence to offer sports bets in New Jersey. It should also provide a link to the DGE website, informing readers that this provides list of approved operators.
In addition, the DGE reminded outlets that they should not enter into contracts with unlicensed sites as this could harm any future application for a license in the state.
“DGE is committed to work with news and media outlets to educate them about unauthorised gaming websites,” Rebuck said in the letter.
“A news or media outlet that has been in contact with a website offering unauthorised wagering is encouraged to contact DGE immediately, regardless of whether the outlet is presently licensed or registered with DGE, to obtain more information on the standards for sports wagering licensure in New Jersey.”
In February, the Office of the New Jersey Attorney General ordered all licensed casinos and igaming operators in the state to cease working with Oddsshark, citing the high-profile affiliate’s promotion of illegal, offshore gaming sites.
In a letter provided to iGamingBusiness.com by AmericanCasinos.com, New Jersey Deputy Attorney General Anthony Strangia said Oddsshark promoted illegal igaming sites including Bovada, Betonline and 5Dimes alongside sites licensed in the state. The report was confirmed by multiple sources.
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