DNSFilter has released the information gathered through its DNS content filtering platform regarding gambling traffic, both malicious and legitimate, in the lead up to Super Bowl LIX. The data showcases key threats during the NFL playoff season, particularly in January during the NFL playoffs, where unsanctioned streaming and gambling activities increased.

On the day of the Super Bowl, DNSFilter blocked 57% more malicious content related to gambling and betting compared to the rest of the NFL post-season. Previous high spikes to these malicious betting sites coincided with Super Bowl LVIII and 2024 March Madness.

Since sports betting is now legal in a majority of US states, overall traffic to DNSFilter’s gambling category has increased over the last year. Compared to the same timeframe last February, daily traffic to all gambling sites has increased 71%, surpassing DNSFilter’s overall network growth of 16%.

Other key statistics and insights from DNSFilter’s research, focusing on online threats leading up to the 2025 Super Bowl, include:

Streaming Media and Malware:

A 15% increase in illegal streaming and torrenting traffic related to fake streaming sites during championship weekend compared to the previous average held between May and December 2024, indicating an escalating risk of security issues tied to streaming during major NFL events. This week had the highest traffic to illegal streaming sites ever on the DNSFilter network. Unauthorized streaming is a common risk factor for organizations, especially with unmanaged devices accessing potentially harmful content.

Threats by Domain:

Domains related to the NFL have been seeing increased security threats, with spikes in malicious activity associated with streaming sites, gambling and possibly phishing attacks targeting Super Bowl fans or bettors. Threat domains with “football” in the domain name surged in January, with spikes on January 14, the day after Super Wild Card Weekend, and Super Bowl Sunday.

Fake Betting Site Trends:

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A significant 20% of malicious gambling domains identified during the NFL playoffs used a string of numbers in their names, a common tactic for “mirror” sites that attempt to evade detection. If you’re unsure of the legitimacy of a gambling site, this is an indicator that it may be a scam.

Most malicious domains related to betting were categorized as malware, while most traffic came from newly registered domains. A site with a captcha does not necessarily mean it is safe. Some malicious sites will show a captcha before entering because the host is suspicious of the site, but has not taken it down. DNSFilter encountered a handful of fake betting sites with Captchas during this investigation.

TK Keanini, CTO of DNSFilter, said: “Our technology prevents access to unwanted content by identifying and categorizing threats and harmful sites before a connection is made. With real-time insights into evolving tactics, we’re committed to staying a step ahead, safeguarding users from threats tied to high-profile events like the Super Bowl. By continuously educating and protecting users, we can help foster a safer online environment during sporting events and beyond.”

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken strict action against nine online casinos, issuing cease-and-desist letters for violations of state gaming laws. The affected websites offer a range of casino-style games, such as slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps, as well as betting services for sporting events and horse races.

The following operators have been issued cease-and-desist orders:

BetAnySports (BAS)

CoolCat Casino

Diamond Sportsbook International, d/b/a BetDSI.eu (BetDSI)

Solar Game LTD and Busan Trade Office (Go Go Gold)

My Dreams Casino

NonStop casino

Palace of Chance

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Xbet Casino

WagerWeb

“These unlicensed operators are not only in violation of Michigan’s laws but also pose significant risks to consumers by offering limited and often unreliable withdrawal options. Our role is to protect Michigan residents by ensuring that all online gambling activities are carried out legally and responsibly. These operators have 14 days to cease their illegal activities or face further legal action,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams.

Grupo Aposta Ganha, the fastest-growing Brazilian sports betting and online gaming platform, has been officially authorised to operate fixed-odds lottery betting in Brazil. The license covers sports-themed and online gaming and consolidates the company’s commitment to a fully regulated and responsible betting market. The Secretariat of Prizes and Betting of the Ministry of Finance issued the license that runs until December 31, 2029.

Grupo Aposta Ganha has strengthened its position as a leading force in Brazil’s rapidly expanding gaming industry, complying with Law No. 13,756/2018 and Law No. 14,790/2023, which govern fixed-odds betting in the country.

With registration number 0022 in the Betting Management System (Sigap), Aposta Ganha is one of the first to be licensed under the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA), part of the Ministry of Finance.

Aposta Ganha is fully committed to Responsible Gaming, instilling these values into every aspect of its operation even before the SPA’s stringent measures were outlined.

Ramon Lima Grupo Aposta Ganha CEO, said: “Securing our license is the culmination of hard graft and collaboration with the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) under the Ministry of Finance. Operating within a regulated Brazilian market has always been our goal, and we’re extremely pleased to play a key role in supporting a sustainable betting market in our country.”