Indiana Sports Betting Apps Fined for Self-Exclusion Violations
BetMGM and Fanatics, have each agreed to pay a $2,500 fine following incidents where technological changes allowed customers on the voluntary self-exclusion list to place bets.
The Indiana Gaming Commission announced the settlements during a meeting on Thursday, highlighting the importance of adhering to self-exclusion protocols to protect vulnerable players.
Details of the Violations
Both online sportsbooks identified the issue and reported it to state regulators. The incidents involved customers who had self-excluded from betting being able to place wagers due to platform changes.
A specific case involved a Fanatics customer who placed over $3,200 in bets through his Indiana account after it was mistakenly reactivated. The account became active during a platform migration from PointsBet on February 27.
The player had originally set a year-long self-exclusion starting December 4, 2023. Following the account reactivation, the player imposed a 21-day timeout ending on March 19.
During the period outside the timeout, between February 27 and March 22, the player deposited $1,300 and placed 22 bets totaling $3,208. The error was detected by Fanatics’ exclusion matching service, leading to the suspension of the account. Fanatics refunded the player’s remaining $1,100 on March 24.
Regulatory Response
The Indiana Gaming Commission’s decision to impose fines underscores the critical nature of maintaining effective self-exclusion systems.
Both BetMGM and Fanatics have taken responsibility for the breaches, which were caused by technological transitions rather than deliberate oversight. The fines and the prompt reporting of the issues reflect the industry’s commitment to compliance and player protection.
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