
Maine Gambling Experts Caution About Illegal Online Gaming Sites
If you're tempted by online games that promise huge payouts, you should know they're illegal in Maine.
Maine Gambling Experts Say Online Gaming that Promises Big Prizes is Illegal Here
Most of us have experience with these ads for games that promise huge cash payouts. They usually include someone dressed in expensive clothing, or on a luxury vacation, which they claim to have bought with their cash winnings.
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I'm hooked on the game Royal Match, but I refuse to pay for extra lives or anything else. I've seen those ads promising easy money and big cash prizes that seem too good to be true. Yup, you know the rest. They probably are. Plus, they're illegal.
Maine Gambling Overseers Won't Intervene for Anyone Losing Money on Illegal Sites
Milton Champion, Executive Director of the Gambling Control Unit in Maine, says online casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette for real money, prizes, or gift cards are strictly prohibited in Maine. Look for words like 'sweepstakes' or 'social casino' to spot them.
Or, better yet, check the website for the Maine Gambling Control Unit.
No online casino, iGaming, or sweepstakes site is licensed by the Maine Gambling Control Unit. While officials can't prevent people from playing the game, they want people to know that it's at their own risk because, should something go wrong, the MGCU won't be able to offer any assistance.
Maine does have sites for online sports betting and casinos where you can gamble in person. But the online stuff that seems too good to be true is probably illegal.
Maine Has Resources Available if You Have a Gambling Problem
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Resources for responsible gaming and problem gambling support can be found on the Gambling Control Unit website.
For a list of resources in your area, call 211.
The National Problem Gaming Helpline is 1-800-GAMBLER.
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