Responsible Gaming Guide: Ranking the Top Underscoregs for Consumer Protection

It is crucial for all casino companies to have responsible gaming programs in place to protect vulnerable players and prevent financial harm.

For a long time, gambling companies have been responsible for offering players the necessary tools and support to safeguard themselves. However, legislation has started to alter the manner in which this support is provided in recent years.

Responsible gaming became a prominent issue in 2018 with the repeal of PASPA, which significantly altered the landscape of sports betting.

The ruling granted individual states the authority to regulate responsible gaming legislation, resulting in a diverse range of problem gambling laws that differ greatly from state to state.

Centralized reference points, such as the American Gaming Association’s Responsible Gaming Statutes and Regulations Guide, highlight the significant variations in problem gambling regulations and restrictions among the 35 commercial gaming jurisdictions in the US.

Several of the nation’s leading sportsbooks are now taking extra measures to ensure the safety of their players, utilizing innovative support tools and data-driven strategies. However, it remains to be seen which sites provide the most effective support to players and which ones may need to do more to prevent potential harm.

This guide will explore six of the nation’s top sportsbooks, evaluating the effectiveness of current protective measures for vulnerable players and discussing additional steps needed to prevent harm from gaming.

Responsible Gaming Efficiency Table

Let’s examine the responsible gaming practices of the top sportsbooks in North America.

Please review our breakdown of the categories located at the end of the guide.

Top Underscoregs Ranked in Responsible Gaming Practices 

Responsible gaming landing page

1. bet365

The responsible gaming page on bet365 is designed with user-friendly navigation and clear intentions. It provides all the necessary information for players without the need to search for features, making it easy to use.

2. FanDuel

FanDuel’s responsible gaming page is both informative and user-friendly. It features a sidebar with quick access to various options like self-exclusion, timeouts, and betting limits. Additionally, the page includes links to additional resources such as charitable organizations and support networks that players may find helpful.

3. DraftKings

DraftKings’ responsible gaming page boasts an impressive design and informative content, making it simple for players to access important resources. The section dedicated to problem gambling and safer play offers quick access to support services. However, the page could benefit from improved navigation.

4. BetMGM

The BetMGM responsible gaming guide provides valuable information for players, but lacks user-friendly design and functionality. Despite containing necessary information, players must manually search or scroll through the page to find what they need. Improvements in design and layout are necessary for a better user experience.

5. Caesars

Similar to other companies in the industry, Caesars has a specific landing page for responsible gaming that is accessible to players. While the page mentions the various features offered by the company, it lacks in-depth details. Players would benefit from more information on how to effectively utilize the available resources before implementing them.

6. ESPN Bet

ESPN Bet offers numerous responsible gaming resources for players, however, the landing page lacks specific details on how to utilize these options effectively. While there are links to more detailed guides on resources, players may find it challenging to navigate through the page and locate the specific resource they are looking for.

Setting betting limits 

1. FanDuel

FanDuel offers a variety of betting limit options that can be easily accessed through the account pages. Players have the choice to set limits such as global deposit limits, contest entry limits, entry fee limits, and more. How-to videos are available to assist in setting these limits, making the process quick and straightforward.

2. bet365

Bet365 provides deposit limits to assist players in controlling their expenses. These limits can be adjusted for periods of 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days and cannot be changed once they are set.

Setting limits and using reality checks on account pages make it easy for players to monitor their gaming time. Reality checks provide reminders when players are nearing their chosen time limit.

3. ESPN Bet

ESPN Bet offers a variety of betting limit options for players to choose from. By logging in, users can easily access features such as daily time limits, deposit limits, spend limits, and loss limits. Setting these limits only takes a few clicks and goes into effect right away. In addition to these options, ESPN Bet also provides a cool off feature, similar to other betting platforms.

4. BetMGM

At BetMGM, players have the option to establish deposit limits, loss limits, session limits, and wagering limits. To access these features, players simply need to go to the ‘my wallet’ section and click on the ‘deposit’ tab. Once set, limits will be activated immediately. Any requests to increase these limits will be subject to a 24-hour waiting period, ensuring the safety and protection of players.

5. DraftKings

At DraftKings, players have the option to set deposit limits on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. These limits can be adjusted through the Patron Protection Centre, which can be accessed from the menu page after logging in.

The DraftKings support center offers detailed guidance on how to establish limits within your account, including step-by-step instructions for users of the app, desktops, and laptops. Additionally, there are video tutorials available to further clarify the process.

6. Caesars

Gamers have the ability to establish maximum deposit limits for specific time periods, including daily, weekly, or monthly. Additionally, they can set spending limits for these same time frames, as well as daily time limits that are measured in hours.

Caesars provides the choice to implement a cooling-off period, preventing account access for a duration of three to 30 days. These settings can easily be adjusted within a player’s account with just the touch of a button.

Timeouts

1. bet365

At bet365, players have the ability to take full control of their gaming with a range of timeout options. These include set timeouts of 24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days, or 30 days, as well as the flexibility to choose a custom timeout period.

Bet365 timeouts may occur as a single occurrence or as repeated intervals. For instance, players have the option to limit their account access from Monday to Friday.

2. DraftKings

Players on DraftKings have the ability to set timeouts as needed, with options ranging from 3 to 6 days or one to four weeks. These can be accessed through the Patron Protection Center in the account menu.

Players are unable to access their accounts during timeouts, requiring them to contact the support team to retrieve any funds in their account during this period.

3. FanDuel

FanDuel offers timeouts as part of its responsible gaming tools. Players can easily set up a timeout by selecting this option in the responsible gaming section of their account pages.

Players have the option to take timeouts for a period ranging from three to 365 days. While on timeout, accounts will be completely restricted, and players will be automatically unsubscribed from mailing lists.

4. BetMGM

The timeout feature from BetMGM allows players to easily set up temporary breaks. Found on players’ account pages, this option limits access for durations ranging from one day to six weeks.

To set up a timeout, players simply need to visit the ‘Safer Gambling Tools’ page and select ‘limits’ with just a few clicks.

5. ESPN Bet

Players using ESPN Bet can choose to take a break ranging from 72 hours to a year. Once a timeout is activated, players will be automatically logged out and unable to place bets or make deposits during that time period.

After the initial cool off period, players are encouraged to request another cool off period if needed. It is important to note that ESPN Bet does not permit account access during a cool-off period, so players must contact the support team to withdraw funds while their accounts are restricted.

6. Caesars

If players find the current betting limits insufficient, they have the option to take a full timeout from Caesars Underscoreg. Account features allow users to limit access to their accounts for periods lasting from three to 30 days.

While the feature does provide some support for individuals dealing with problem gambling, its lack of customizable or extended timeout options limits its flexibility compared to other sites’ timeout features.

Self-exclusion

1. FanDuel

With FanDuel’s self-exclusion feature, players have the option to indefinitely restrict access to their accounts. Setting it up is quick and easy.

Once activated, future entries are automatically nullified and players are prohibited from accessing their accounts for a minimum of one year. Additionally, players will be promptly removed from all mailing lists within 24 hours.

Players can choose to contact customer support at the end of the one-year period if they want to reactivate their account.

2. DraftKings

Players on DraftKings have the choice to self-exclude for durations of three months, six months, one year, or five years. These options are simple to set up and detailed instructions on how to self-exclude can be found in the help center.

During self-exclusion, players are unable to access their accounts and must contact customer support for withdrawals. Once the self-exclusion period ends, accounts will be reactivated automatically.

3. bet365

The self-exclusion policy at bet365 prohibits players from accessing their accounts for a minimum of six months up to a maximum of five years.

During self-exclusion, players can log in solely to withdraw any remaining funds. Reactivating self-excluded accounts is not an option, and the company actively works to prevent players from creating new accounts during this period. If detected, these accounts will be promptly closed.

4. ESPN Bet

The process of self-exclusion at ESPN Bet varies depending on the player’s location, with specific instructions available on a dedicated page on the website.

Although this information is informative, it is important to consider that the level of detail provided may be overwhelming for struggling players. They may find it easier to self-exclude using the simpler procedures offered by other competing websites. Additionally, players are required to provide extra information when self-excluding.

5. Caesars

At Caesars, players have the option to self-exclude for periods ranging from one year to five years. For those facing severe gambling addiction, there is also the choice to self-exclude permanently.

Once a player chooses to be excluded, they cannot change their decision. All account features are limited to provide the necessary support during this time.

6. BetMGM

Players at BetMGM have the option to self-exclude for a period ranging from six months to five years, as a permanent option is not currently offered.

Self-exclusion restricts access to games for the specified time period. If a player creates a new account, the exclusion will cancel all transactions and forfeit any winnings.

Self-excluding with BetMGM also limits access to any websites under the LeoVegas Gaming PLC license. Players must reach out to customer support in order to initiate the self-exclusion process.

Additional resources

1. DraftKings

DraftKings provides an extensive array of resources for players to address problem gambling, easily accessible through the responsible gaming page.

Players have the option to find more information on the FAQs page or utilize self-help tools and screening kits. DraftKings has also launched a new feature called My Stat Sheet, which allows players to gain a deeper insight into their activity on the site.

2. FanDuel

FanDuel’s responsible gaming page offers a variety of extra resources, including third-party self-exclusion options.

Players can find contact information for organizations such as National Suicide Prevention, Gambler’s Anonymous, GAM-ANON, and others on FanDuel’s responsible gaming landing page for additional support.

3. bet365

You can easily access a comprehensive list of supportive organizations through the responsible gaming page on bet365. This page provides detailed information on various organizations dedicated to assisting individuals dealing with gambling addiction.

Furthermore, the website offers information for individuals interested in assisting others. Various resources are accessible for those in need of assistance for minors, as well as for friends and family members who may be struggling with addiction.

4. Caesars

Caesars provides fewer responsible gaming resources compared to its rivals.

: While Caesars offers important tools such as deposit limits, cool off periods, and self-exclusion options, the site is missing some of the additional support that other companies are starting to offer. Additionally, Caesars does provide information for players seeking to opt out of marketing databases.

5. BetMGM

BetMGM’s responsible gaming provision is lacking in additional resources.

Although the site offers essential tools for players, it lacks in providing comprehensive information. For instance, the responsible gaming page lists support organizations without detailing their services and assistance.

6. ESPN Bet

ESPN Bet offers valuable resources for players to recognize signs of problem gambling before it becomes a serious issue. The website also provides information debunking common myths about gambling addiction.

Like BetMGM, ESPN Bet also highlights organizations that are recognized for their assistance in helping individuals dealing with gambling addiction. However, it lacks detailed information on the specific types of support these organizations provide. This could make it challenging for vulnerable players to determine which organization to reach out to for help.

Advertising and responsible gaming

1. bet365

The latest campaign from bet365, named Play Safe, is focused on increasing awareness of its responsible gaming resources.

Created in collaboration with agency Drummond Central, the campaign offers details on features such as deposit limits, timeouts, and reality checks. It was launched on TV, in print, and on social media platforms. Learn more about the Play Safe initiative by clicking here.

2. FanDuel

In March, FanDuel launched a fresh responsible gaming initiative created by their in-house team and Broomshot producers. This latest installment is part of their ongoing series called “the system.”

FanDuel’s Responsible Gaming Ambassador, Craig Carton, is joined by players and employees who are sharing their personal stories. The campaign is being showcased across various platforms including TV, digital, social media, and audio channels.

3. DraftKings

Over the years, DraftKings has launched multiple responsible gaming campaigns, often starring celebrities to increase awareness of the available tools for responsible gaming on the app and website.

The most recent DraftKings marketing campaign showcased icons such as skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and WWE professional wrestler The Miz. The campaign coincided with the launch of Responsible Gaming Education Month.

4. ESPN Bet

ESPN Bet has collaborated with various gaming companies to create several responsible gaming campaigns.

The company provided funding for responsible gaming advertisements created by the NBA, MLB, and NHL last year. One commercial featured intense footage along with messages emphasizing the risks involved in betting on sports. This campaign was a collaboration between the company, DraftKings, Fanatics, and FanDuel.

5. BetMGM

At the start of last year, BetMGM made a commitment to prioritize responsible gaming messages in its campaigns. As a result, the company has integrated responsible gaming messages into its mobile app and all advertisements, including those on billboards, television, print, and radio.

6. Caesars

While Caesars sportsbook has received recognition for its commitment to responsible gaming, it currently lacks dedicated responsible gaming campaigns. There is room for improvement in raising awareness of the support tools available to customers.

Verdict

Out of the top six sports betting sites, FanDuel and bet365 are particularly consumer-centric when it comes to promoting responsible gaming practices. They excel in guiding customers through setting bet limits, timeouts, and self-exclusion processes, as well as providing access to numerous responsible gaming resources.

In contrast, Caesars Underscoreg has a long way to go to reach the industry’s highest standards.

Responsible Gaming Support at a Glance

To truly understand the effectiveness of a sportsbook’s responsible gaming strategy, it is important to evaluate a wide range of responsible gaming categories. Here are the six key areas that we analyzed when developing our rankings:

Responsible Gaming Landing Page: The ease of finding information, the clarity of the layout, and the level of detail provided are crucial factors in a sports betting site’s responsible gaming foundation.

How user-friendly is the process of setting betting limits on different sports betting websites? What features do these sites offer for customizing these limits? Is there clear guidance provided for players on how to establish or modify their betting thresholds?

Timeouts: How user-friendly and efficient is the process for customers to establish timeout periods on each sports betting site? What customization options do these sportsbooks offer for setting timeouts? Is there clear guidance available for players on how to create, modify, or cancel their timeout periods?

Self-Exclusion: How efficiently can customers establish self-exclusion periods on different sports betting websites? What customization options are available for self-exclusion on these sites? Do the betting platforms provide clear guidelines on the scope of exclusion and the conditions for re-entry into gameplay?

More Resources: In what ways do sports betting sites support responsible gambling efforts beyond the basics? How accessible are these resources for customers? Are the links current and direct? Do customers feel supported in seeking help through the sportsbooks?

How have sports betting sites integrated responsible gaming into their advertising strategies? Do their messages promote responsible gambling clearly and effectively? To what extent are they utilizing multiple media channels to reach customers?