The Maine Gambling Control Unit is issuing an advisory to residents and visitors regarding unregulated online gaming platforms currently operating in the state.
Despite the popularity of online fantasy contests and sports betting, online casino-style games such as slots, blackjack, and roulette for real money remain strictly prohibited in Maine. Unregulated entities continue to target Maine residents with illicit iGaming opportunities.
From Milton Champion, Executive Director of the Gambling Control Unit within the Department of Public Safety:
Despite the legality of online advance deposit wagering, fantasy contests and sports wagering, online casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette for real money remain strictly prohibited in the State. Numerous unregulated entities continue to target Maine residents, offering illicit iGaming opportunities. These operations, based out of state and often out of the country, include sites that may appear legitimate but lack any regulatory oversight in Maine. Examples of such unlicensed platforms may include, but are not limited to, certain sweepstake or social casino sites that offer real-money payouts, coin-titled substitutes, dual-currency systems, material prizes or gift cards.
The Gambling Control Unit wants to make it very clear: no online casino, iGaming, or sweepstakes site is licensed by the Gambling Control Unit. We strongly encourage everyone to avoid these websites; however, patrons who choose to engage with these unlicensed platforms do so at their own risk. The Gambling Control Unit cannot provide assistance or intervention in
cases of disputes regarding winnings or other account issues arising from participation in illegal iGaming.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available HERE or by calling 211 or the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800 GAMBLER.
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