FBI Issues Warning As Sports Gambling Surges Around The US
The FBI warns of risks associated with the surge in sports gambling, including funding organized crime and potential for fraud.Summary
The FBI has issued a warning regarding the increasing popularity of sports gambling in the United States, noting that while 39 states and D.C. have legalized it, illegal sportsbooks remain widespread. Approximately $673.6 billion is wagered annually through these illegal markets, exposing individuals to risks like funding organized crime, violence, extortion, and fraud. The FBI is actively targeting these operations, including offshore sites that obscure their origins and don't adhere to U.S. regulations. Profits from illegal gambling can fuel human trafficking, drug smuggling, and weapon smuggling. Recent high-profile cases involving NBA players and MLB pitchers highlight the dangers, with charges filed for illegal betting, money laundering, and game rigging. A recent NBC News poll indicates that 70% of Americans believe the rise of sports betting threatens the integrity of games, a concern echoed by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
(Source：Zerohedge)