Arizona Department of Gaming launches campaign to fight illegal gambling

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has launched its first statewide Public Education Campaign to protect consumers and reduce illegal gambling risks.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about unregulated gambling and promote safe, legal gaming options in Arizona. It includes Public Service Announcements (PSAs) in English and Spanish, airing on TV, radio, print, and digital platforms.

The PSAs aim to inform the public on how to recognize legal, regulated gaming operators in Arizona, highlight consumer protections available through regulated gaming, showcase the positive impact of regulated gaming on Arizona communities and essential services, and promote the 1-800-NEXT STEP helpline, which offers confidential, 24/7 support for problem gambling.

In tandem with the PSAs, ADG has introduced the Check Your Bet webpage (gaming.az.gov/checkyourbet), a comprehensive online resource that allows users to access searchable lists and interactive maps of authorized Tribal Casinos and licensed Event Wagering and Fantasy Sports operators.

The site also provides information on Advanced Deposit Wagering Providers, Off-Track Betting locations, and approved horse racing tracks. Additionally, users can utilize problem gambling support tools, including a confidential self-screening quiz and helpline details, request voluntary self-exclusion from tribal casinos and betting contests, and submit tips about suspected illegal gambling or file consumer complaints with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.

“This campaign is about empowering Arizonans who choose to participate in gaming with the knowledge to make informed, responsible decisions," said Jackie Johnson, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. "As illegal and unregulated options on the market increase, the Check Your Bet webpage serves as a key resource for the public to verify licensed operators and access support. By directing viewers from our PSAs to this tool, we’re helping ensure people not only play safely, but also know where to turn if they or a loved one are struggling with problem gambling.”

Arizona boasts a diverse array of legal, regulated gaming options, including tribal casinos, event wagering, fantasy sports, and parimutuel wagering. For over 30 years, ADG has maintained the integrity of the state’s gaming industry through oversight, licensing, and enforcement under Tribal-State Gaming Compacts.

The campaign will run through March 2026 as part of ADG’s ongoing efforts to maintain a safe, transparent gaming environment.