Massachusetts Gaming Commission launches campaign ahead of World Cup

Raising awareness about legal gambling

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has unveiled Safer Bets Start Here, a public awareness campaign designed to educate residents about the state's regulated gambling market while cautioning them about the risks associated with illegal betting platforms.

The initiative aims to help consumers identify licensed operators and understand the protections available when wagering through legal channels. It also continues to introduce the public to PlayWell, the Commission's responsible gaming and player health program launched earlier this year.

Consumer protection at the center

Commissioner Eileen O’Brien emphasized that licensed operators in Massachusetts are required to meet strict standards designed to protect consumers.

According to O’Brien, regulated operators must prioritize responsible gaming measures, use technology to prevent underage access, and safeguard customer data and funds. In contrast, illegal operators expose consumers to significantly greater risks.

The campaign, she noted, seeks to ensure that Massachusetts residents are aware of the legal betting options available should they decide to gamble.

Promoting safer play through PlayWell

Commissioner Nakisha Skinner highlighted that while gambling always involves an element of risk, choosing regulated platforms provides an additional layer of security through the Commission's oversight framework.

She also encouraged patrons to make use of the educational tools and support services available through PlayWell, either online or at dedicated PlayWell Hubs located within the Commonwealth's casinos.

Introduced in March 2026, PlayWell was created to help patrons stay informed, aware, and in control of their gambling activities. The program offers in-person assistance at Massachusetts' three casinos, support through its website and telephone services, and access to trained responsible gaming professionals.

PlayWell advisors can explain game rules and odds, assist players with budgeting tools such as PlayMyWay, facilitate enrollment in the voluntary self-exclusion program, and connect individuals requiring additional support with clinical resources.

Campaign timed with FIFA World Cup

Safer Bets Start Here is an awareness campaign launched by the Commission intended to inform Massachusetts residents about legal, regulated gaming and caution about the dangers of putting their money on an unregulated, often illegal platform. The campaign also continues to introduce the public to PlayWell, the Commission’s new responsible gaming and player health program.

Massachusetts legalized sports wagering through casinos and online operators in early 2023, creating a broad market of regulated betting options. However, the Commission warned that illegal operators continue to present themselves as legitimate alternatives.

Officials also expressed concern over the emergence of prediction markets that have reportedly included unauthorized sports betting products marketed to individuals under the age of 21.

Guidance for bettors

The Commission reminded consumers that Massachusetts currently offers three retail sportsbooks and seven licensed online operators. Bettors are encouraged to verify that the platform they use displays the Commission's official seal of approval, a requirement for every legal online operator in the state.

In addition, the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General recently issued a consumer advisory outlining which forms of gambling are legal—or soon to become legal—within the Commonwealth. These include casino gaming, horse racing, and sports wagering regulated by the MGC, fantasy contests overseen by the Attorney General's Office, and lottery products managed by the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission, including the forthcoming launch of iLottery.