Consumer Protection, DMHAS, and CCPG Remind Adults About Resources for Problem Gambling Ahead of Super Bowl Sunday

HARTFORD - The Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and Connecticut Council on Problem Gaming (CCPG) are advising adults who choose to bet on the Super Bowl, to do so responsibly.

The American Gaming Association estimates that more than $1.76 billion in wagers will be placed on this year's Super Bowl, a 27 percent increase from 2025.

"We know that Super Bowl Sunday is big night for sports betting and we encourage adults over the age of 21 who choose to participate to do so responsibly, or to reconsider those wagers altogether and just enjoy the game," said DCP Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. "One way to ensure you are making a safe bet is by using one of three licensed platforms, DraftKings, FanDuel, or Fanatics. Engaging in an offshore gaming platform puts your money and personal information at risk of being stolen. And, if those unlicensed platforms experience issues or don't pay out as promised it is difficult to recover your funds or conduct enforcement actions against them."

"Major sporting events, like this weekend's game, are accompanied with increases in gambling and I urge Connecticut residents to approach any betting activity with caution and intention," said DMHAS Commissioner Nancy Navarretta. "Setting clear limits, avoiding impulsive decisions, and recognizing the signs of gambling-related harm are important steps to protecting individual and family well-being. Support and treatment services are available across the state, and no one should hesitate to seek help if gambling is becoming a concern."

"The Super Bowl is about enjoying the game and spending time with friends and family, not risking more than you can afford to lose," said Diana Goode, Executive Director of the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling. "We encourage fans who choose to bet to set limits, take breaks, and use the safer play tools available at ResponsiblePlayCT.org. If gambling starts to feel stressful or out of control, help is always available through Connecticut's 24/7 Problem Gambling Helpline at (888) 789-7777."

How to bet responsibly:

• Engage only with licensed platforms: The only three licensed platforms in Connecticut are DraftKings, FanDuel, or Fanatics. Licensed operators are secure and comply with all state regulations and technical standards.
• Set strict time and money limits: Sports betting apps allow you to set limits on how much you can deposit or place on an individual bet. You can also limit the amount of time spent on the app. Set limits and stick to them.
• Review the house rules before you bet: House rules determine a winning and losing bet, addresses unusual gametime situations, and payout details. These rules may vary based on platform.
• One player per account: Players are prohibited from allowing more than one user on their account. The account user is responsible for all activities, charges, and damages on their account. It is illegal to allow a minor to bet on your account.

Why are offshore gaming platforms dangerous?

The unregulated gaming market lacks consumer protections, meaning those who participate are at risk of losing their money and earnings. Any banking or contact information can be stolen, used, or hacked. If you have a payout issue with an illegal platform, there is little to no recourse to recover your winnings.

Adding money to offshore sites, which includes sports betting, online games, and unregulated machines, can fund organized criminal activity, according to the FBI. Participants may also be susceptible to tax evasion or money laundering crimes.

Resources

DCP's Gaming Division offers a Self-Exclusion List, a statewide portal for consumers to voluntarily exclude themselves from receiving direct marketing content. Individuals may select a 1-year, 5-year, or lifetime ban from participant in Connecticut gaming activity. There are more than 8,700 individuals on the statewide Voluntary Self-Exclusion list as of this month.

If you or someone you know is looking for support for problems related to gambling, call the Connecticut Council on Problem Gaming 24/7 confidential Problem Gambling Helpline at 1(888) 789-7777 or visit CCPG's website.