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Thousands of kids in the US are using regulated sportsbook applications to place bets, according to a recent study, which has sparked new worries about illicit gambling and industry protections.
The issue of underage gambling is becoming troubling
Each year, US online sportsbooks uncover thousands of instances of underage gambling.
According to a USA TODAY study, children persist in attempting to access betting websites despite strict age limitations. Sportsbooks often find that their internal monitoring tools regularly detect underage users. At times, parents or guardians inform operators directly regarding their children’s gambling activities. Accounts are typically suspended or permanently banned upon the discovery of minors. The study was based on the “suspected fraud reports” submitted to authorities across ten states. These reports outline circumstances where sportsbooks believe a user might not meet the legal gambling age.
Ways in which minors access sportsbook apps
The report states that children bypass restrictions in several ways. Some utilize accounts registered under parents or family members to place bets. Some attempt to register with false information or, in more severe cases, stolen identities. FanDuel and DraftKings are two platforms that rely on advanced verification techniques. These involve monitoring payment methods, verifying identities, and utilizing geolocation systems.
Bank accounts that appear to be owned by minors are flagged for further investigation. Access by minors continues despite these measures. Critics argue that persistent users often find faults in verification methods.
State statistics reveal the magnitude of the problem
Not all US states provide public access to information regarding underage gambling.
While certain states require reporting, others either do not gather it whatsoever or maintain it confidential. Last year, DraftKings reported that around 4,800 attempts by minors to register were prevented in Massachusetts. Following the detection of underage usage, the operator also disabled 243 accounts. FanDuel reported that 330 accounts were shut down and 186 sign-up attempts were blocked during that period. The tally of reported incidents in Tennessee surged dramatically. Last year, over 400 accounts were accessed by underage users, increasing from 105 in 2024. Ohio monitors the volume of wagers placed by underage individuals. As of 2023, DraftKings has recorded 620 incidents related to bets amounting to $2.78 million. According to FanDuel, 162 incidents were associated with just over $63,000 in suspected activity.
Measures for safety at sportsbooks
Licensed sportsbooks assert that they implement various security protocols. The age verification checks are necessary and confirm personal details. Some platforms additionally implement biometric verification, which involves taking selfies alongside an official form of identification. Geolocation technology plays a vital role in this process as well. Companies like GeoComply prevent individuals from placing bets in restricted areas, such as schools. Operators argue that no system is completely foolproof. They assert that ongoing investment in technology is essential to minimize access for underage users.
Authorities enhance preventive measures
Regulators highlight that education plays an important role in tackling the problem. Jordan Maynard, director of the MGC, stressed the importance of tracking rather than punishment. In his opinion, regulators ought to be open about the gravity of the problem and honest about potential solutions. Concerns are growing as big athletic events get near. There is growing pressure on parents, operators, and authorities to restrict gaming access for minors.
Source: USA Today
