To easily differentiate between offshore sportsbooks and regulated Virginia sports-betting operators, simply check for the presence of the RG logo located at the top of the webpage.
Responsible gambling, also known as RG, represents its acronym.
The RG logo, featuring contrasting green and yellow colors, is positioned right next to the log-in button on the online platforms of Caesars, BetMGM, and Barstool Sportsbooks. Additionally, Barstool ensures the 1-800-GAMBLER phone number is displayed on every page.
During National Problem Gambling Awareness Month in March, it becomes evident that regulated sportsbooks prioritize the well-being of their customers, making them a preferable choice over offshore sportsbooks. Despite the perception of better odds and potential tax evasion, regulated sportsbooks are widely favored.
Offshore markets: Better odds? Worse care?
Play-virginia.com conducted an analysis of several offshore sports-betting websites aimed at serving US bettors. Our assessment involved a comparison of the NCAA Sweet Sixteen game spreads posted on Wednesday.
There was a slight variation in the point spread. The authorized VA sportsbooks considered Arizona as 1.5-point favorites, whereas a single offshore book regarded the Wildcats as 2.5-point favorites.
The most significant indication, however, lies in the placement of responsible gaming initiatives by offshore sportsbooks. These initiatives do exist, but they require careful searching to find.
After perusing through the FAQ section of an offshore sportsbook site, I stumbled upon the information. The section provided valuable guidance on determining when to be concerned about your gambling habits. Additionally, it highlighted the availability of a self-exclusion program that interested individuals could enroll in.
The responsible gaming policy of another offshore site was located in fine print at the bottom of their webpage. When clicked, it directed users to a second page where assistance options for individuals in the US and Canada were listed.
Nevertheless, their endeavors fell short when compared to the legal sportsbooks in VA. The regulated operators in the state go above and beyond, incorporating responsible gambling messaging across their websites and apps, with a particular focus on highly visible areas.
What’s a self-exclusion program? Does Virginia have one?
In Virginia, individuals have the option to participate in a self-exclusion program. This program operates solely on a voluntary basis, enabling interested individuals to voluntarily join a list that is shared with gaming licensees across the state.
Once you provide your credentials, the operators will refrain from sending you promotional materials. Moreover, any winnings you obtain may be seized and contributed to the Commonwealth’s Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund.
As a participant in the program, you have the option to enroll for a duration of either two or five years, or even for a lifetime. Once your selected period of self-exclusion has elapsed, you are entitled to submit a formal request to be removed from the list.
Naturally, this condition is restricted to authorized Virginia-based online sportsbooks.
AGA seeks crackdown on off-shore sites
In March of last year, the American Gaming Association released a report stating that over 33% of survey participants were not fully aware of the regulations regarding online gaming in their respective states. Experts approximated that an annual sum of $150 billion is still being directed towards unregulated bookmakers or offshore platforms.
Naturally, that is simply a rough approximation; that is the essence of being unregulated.
Bill Miller, the president of AGA, has urged the federal government to eliminate offshore sites.
Our objective is to increase awareness and draw in players to legal sportsbooks in order to safeguard consumers, generate essential tax revenue for states, and eradicate the illegal market.
Legal sites that are regulated ensure that deposits are secured, withdrawals are facilitated, and responsible gaming measures are promoted. If legal sportsbooks fail to adhere to responsible gaming measures, they may be subjected to fines or have their licenses revoked.
Bet with your head, not over it!
There are various manifestations of a gambling problem. It is important to note that it is an addictive behavior, but it can be addressed through therapy and alternative treatments.
A responsible gambler can be defined as someone who consistently remains within their financial limits and refrains from resorting to extreme measures to sustain their gambling habit.
Nevadacouncil.org has recently compiled a checklist of indicators to help identify signs of an unhealthy gambling habit. Some of these warning signs include:
- Engaging in gambling as a means to evade trouble or worry
- Engaging in gambling as a means to acquire funds or alleviate financial challenges.
- Whether winning or losing, the inability to stop playing persists.
- Being left with only one dollar due to gambling.
- Missing work due to gambling.
- Taking out a loan in order to settle gambling-related financial obligations.
- Neglecting familial obligations due to gambling.
- Engaging in dishonesty regarding the amount of time and money dedicated to gambling.
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