The Better Business Bureau (BBB) reports complaints about online casinos and sports betting have more than doubled since 2023, topping 10,000 filings related to withdrawals, frozen accounts, and abrupt closures since 2022.
Rising Complaint Volumes
- 1,104 online-gambling complaints in 2022
- 3,759 complaints in 2024
- Over 10,000 total since 2022
Players commonly cite confusing terms, delayed withdrawals, and unexpectedly locked accounts.
A Patchwork Legal Landscape
- Online casino gaming is legal in just seven states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.
- Online sports betting is regulated in 33 states plus Washington, DC.
- Yet offshore and “sweepstakes-style” sites, often unlicensed, remain accessible nationwide.
The BBB’s Role & Warnings
Founded in 1912 to advance marketplace trust, the BBB:
- Educates consumers on spotting illicit operators
- Mediates disputes but lacks legal enforcement power
- Publishes annual studies, like its 2025 Gambling Study, highlighting industry risks
Key red flags include big-payout ads, overseas addresses, cryptocurrency options, typos, and sweepstakes mechanics with hidden wagering requirements.
How Leading Operators Fare
A search on BBB.org shows many major iGaming and sportsbook brands carrying “F” ratings:
- DraftKings (225 unresolved complaints)
- Penn Entertainment (Hollywood & ESPN Bet)
- BetMGM, Golden Nugget Online Casino, Bally’s
Notably, no legal online casino or sportsbook holds BBB accreditation.
Additional Resources
To protect yourself:
- Verify an operator’s state license via your gaming commission
- Read terms and conditions to understand wagering and withdrawal rules
- Keep detailed records of deposits, bonus requirements, and communications
If you encounter issues, file a complaint with your state regulator or the Federal Trade Commission. Always prioritize regulated platforms and bet responsibly.
