Compliance Updates
DNSFilter Data Reveals Dangers to Fake Gambling Sites and Illegal Streaming in Lead Up to Super Bowl LIX
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:
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.”
Integrity Compliance 360 (IC360), the unequivocal global leader in delivering best-in-class integrity and compliance regulatory technology products and services for the sports betting and gaming sector, has announced a new partnership with the PGA of America.
Through this partnership, IC360 will provide the PGA of America with its state-of-the-art Integrity Monitoring technology, providing real-time alerts on global wagering activity. Additionally, the PGA of America will utilize ProhiBet, the one-of-a-kind prohibited bettor solution to prevent individuals from engaging in prohibited wagering activities.
“We are excited to partner with IC360, a leader in regulatory technology for sports betting and gaming. This collaboration underscores our commitment to maintaining the highest integrity standards within golf by integrating IC360’s cutting-edge Integrity Monitoring technology and the innovative ProhiBet solution. By leveraging IC360’s expert Advisory Team, we gain invaluable insights as we navigate the sports wagering landscape,” said Jeff Price, Chief Commercial and Philanthropy Officer for the PGA of America.
The PGA of America will also utilize IC360’s seasoned Advisory Team, who will provide consultative services to the organization as they navigate the nuances of the complex and evolving sports wagering regulatory environment. IC360’s team comprises former regulators and seasoned gaming industry professionals who ensure all regulatory compliance standards are hitting the highest standards.
“The PGA of America is a partner that shares the same vision of integrity and fairness in competition, which we promote and aim to protect. It is a privilege to provide this organization with our world-class technology and service, as they continue to showcase excellence in their commitment to integrity and their culture,” said Scott Sadin, Co-CEO of IC360, said.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to 11 illegal online gambling operators found to be targeting Michigan residents without proper state authorization. These unlicensed casinos—some based offshore, others operating from undisclosed or domestic locations—pose serious risks to consumers by skirting Michigan’s regulated gaming laws.
The casinos named in the enforcement action include the following:
Club Player Casino
7 Bets Casino
NinBet Casino
Cherry Jackpot Casino
PitBet
SlotsNBets
Bookmaker.eu
Wild Vegas Casino
VIP Slots Casino
Prism Casino
ABC Islands Casino
“These sites are operating illegally and without proper oversight, putting Michigan players at risk. We’re committed to shutting down unlicensed gambling operations and protecting the public from deceptive practices, unfair play, and financial harm,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
The named operators have been found to accept wagers from Michigan residents via a range of payment methods—including credit cards, digital wallets, and cryptocurrencies. Players may be subjected to questionable practices, such as the withholding of winnings, unrealistic wagering requirements, and denial of withdrawals.
In addition to financial concerns, these illegal operators are not required to follow the same rigorous data protection standards that are mandated in Michigan’s regulated market. As a result, players’ personal and financial information may be highly vulnerable when shared with these unlicensed platforms, increasing the risk of data breaches, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
The MGCB has formally notified all 11 operators to immediately stop offering gambling services to Michigan residents. They have been given 14 days to comply. Continued violations may result in further enforcement, including collaboration with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to pursue legal action.
“This should serve as a strong warning to illegal operators: Michigan does not tolerate unauthorized gambling activity. We will continue our relentless pursuit of actively identifying and disrupting these operations,” Williams said.
“We want every patron in Michigan to have access to a fair and secure gambling experience. By eliminating illegal operators, we’re helping ensure the public can enjoy gaming without fear of fraud or abuse,” Williams added.
The award-winning crash game Aviatrix has received certification for Brazil’s online gaming market, ensuring full compliance in the market.
Aviatrix has been granted full Federal Certification to offer its games via licensed operators in the country. Meanwhile, Aviatrix has also acquired a dedicated certification for the state of Paraná.
This means Brazilian players can now enjoy the most innovative crash game on the market – one that has already gained a loyal following across Latin America.
Anastasia Rimskaya, Chief Account Officer at Aviatrix, said: “This is a huge milestone for Aviatrix. Brazil is one of the most exciting, newly-regulated markets in the world. There is massive demand for high-quality content, and that’s why we know Aviatrix is going to thrive. We’re looking forward to bringing the game to the country via some world-class partners. Get ready for takeoff.”
Aviatrix has been rapidly expanding in Latin America over recent months, including in Peru and Colombia.
The company was also named ‘Rising Star in Casino’ at last year’s SBC Awards Latinoamérica.
-
Latest News6 days agoRising Digital chooses Continent 8 as strategic cybersecurity partner for US iGaming operations
-
Latest News6 days agoEveryMatrix set for another standout year with strong Q1 performance
-
Latest News3 days agoEGT Digital to make a debut at SAGSE Panama 2025
-
Latest News3 days agoEGT’s innovative gaming solutions to be on display at SAGSE Panama 2025
-
Latest News3 days agoLuckBet Launches New TV Commercial Starring Caio Castro on Sportv and Globoplay
-
Latest News2 days agoCT Gaming Strengthens Its Presence with New Installations in Venezuela
-
Latest News2 days agoPenn Entertainment Launches “Penn Wallet” at M Resort Spa Casino, Powered by Everi’s Digital Cashclub Wallet Technology
-
Latest News2 days agoOctoplay Launches Jackpot Blitz with BetMGM in Ontario, Accelerating North American Expansion