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Massachusetts residents are being urged to distinguish between state-regulated gambling platforms and illegal operators as the Massachusetts Gaming Commission launches a public awareness campaign tied to the FIFA World Cup.
The campaign, called Safer Bets Start Here, runs across various platforms and is intended to inform the public about legal gambling options while warning about the risks of using unregulated, often illegal, gambling sites. It also continues the rollout of PlayWell, the Commission’s responsible gaming and player health program.
Massachusetts introduced legal sports wagering at casinos and through regulated online operators in early 2023, creating a market for legal gaming in the state. However, the Commission said illegal gambling operators continue to present themselves as permissible options.
The regulator also cited the growth of prediction markets, including illegal sports wagers that have been offered and marketed to people under 21.
If you choose to gamble on the World Cup, make sure you know what you’re betting on. Enjoy the games! pic.twitter.com/WpvvTwfCBy
— Mass Gaming Commission (@MassGamingComm) June 11, 2026
A list of the state’s three retail and seven online legal operators is available at MassGaming.com. Patrons are also advised to look for the Commission’s seal of approval, which every legal online operator is required to display on its platform.
Commissioner Eileen O’Brien said: “The Massachusetts Gaming Commission requires legal operators to prioritize consumer protections and responsible gaming, employ technology that prevents underage access, and ensure data and funds are secured.”
“Illegal operators put your data and funds at greater risk. This awareness campaign is intended to inform Massachusetts residents about the legal options to wager if they choose to gamble.”
The campaign comes after the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General recently issued a Consumer Advisory on legal state-licensed gaming. The advisory outlines gaming that is legal or soon to be legal in Massachusetts, including casino gaming, horse racing and sports wagering regulated by the Commission; fantasy contests regulated by the Attorney General’s Office; and lottery products, including retail lottery and the soon-to-launch iLottery, regulated by the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission.
PlayWell, launched in March 2026, is designed to help patrons stay informed, aware and in control of their gambling. The program is available in person at the three casinos in Massachusetts, online at PlayWell.org and over the phone.
PlayWell advisors are trained responsible gaming professionals who can explain rules and odds, assist patrons with budgeting through PlayMyWay, help with enrollment in the voluntary self-exclusion program, and refer people who need clinical supports to appropriate resources.
“Gambling inherently involves risk, but if you choose to bet, using a regulated operator can reduce that risk by ensuring your money is secure and your bet is backed up by the Commission’s regulatory structure. You can also learn more about safer gambling by visiting a PlayWell Hub or the PlayWell website,” added Commissioner Nakisha Skinner.