BetMGM is helping to protect athletes with a new zero-tolerance harrassment policy.
Key Takeaways
- BetMGM has greater authority to suspend customer accounts for harassment.
- Professional and amateur athletes have reported a heavy increase in harassment since sports betting was legalized.
- BetMGM also has several other responsible gaming tools and features.
BetMGM confirmed its policy change in a press release and on its social media platforms Monday.
The updated policy gives BetMGM more control over its customers, whose accounts previously could've been suspended for committing unlawful acts.
“We are unwavering in our commitment to sports integrity - and that commitment extends to safeguarding athletes, coaches and league personnel,” said Rhea Loney, BetMGM's chief compliance officer. “Our legal, regulated environment enables us to identify misconduct, investigate reports, and take action when necessary. Any confirmed instance of harassment will result in decisive measures, including account suspension.”
Once approved by regulators, the new integrity policy will launch in all of BetMGM's 30 markets with retail and mobile services.
The new set of standards comes as sports betting continues to spread, with Missouri becoming the 39th state to launch in December. The American Gaming Association. announced the Super Bowl is expected to draw about $1.7 billion in wagers.
“(The policy change) underscores our commitment to sports integrity and player safety,” BetMGM wrote on X.
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Protecting athletes
Sports betting-related abuse has been well-documented by many collegiate and professional athletes and team members.
In October, former San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt revealed his surprising decision to retire was influenced by death threats from angry sports bettors. FanDuel also banned a sports bettor who followed and heckled Olympic champion Gabby Thomas during a Grand Slam Track event in June.
BetMGM’s new policy was designed to alleviate the burden faced by individuals such as those two.
NFL legend and BetMGM ambassador Barry Sanders said the new guidelines will increase respect before, during, and after games.
“As a professional athlete, I know how important respect is - both on and off the field,” Sanders said. “BetMGM is sending a strong message that harassment has no place in sports or sports betting. I'm proud to see BetMGM protecting athletes and promoting integrity.”
Preaching responsibility
BetMGM noted the new update is just one part of its commitment to responsible gaming. While that term is commonly associated with gambling addiction, it also applies to bettors’ behaviors away from sportsbooks.
GameSense, another tool used by BetMGM, has been integrated at 10 football stadiums across the country. GameSense provides educational messaging, such as tips for responsible gaming, to BetMGM customers.
The sportsbook also has basic safety features such as time, deposit, and spending limits.
