Nevada AG Urges Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling
Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford has called on the U.S. Department of Justice to take stronger measures against illegal online gambling, warning that the practice threatens both the state’s casino industry and public revenue.
Impact on Nevada’s Regulated Casino Sector
Ford said illegal online gambling, which is estimated to generate $400 billion annually worldwide, harms regulated casinos along the Las Vegas Strip and beyond. He argued that the scale of unregulated betting undermines the competitiveness of licensed operators that follow consumer protection and tax rules.
According to Ford, states could collectively lose up to $4 billion each year in potential tax revenue due to illegal online betting platforms. These platforms often operate outside U.S. jurisdiction, making it difficult for states to enforce their laws or collect taxes.
A Threat to Consumer Protection
Ford described illegal online gaming as “a danger to every jurisdiction.” He said it weakens regulated systems that are designed to safeguard players, ensure fair play, and prevent criminal activity. Licensed markets, he stressed, exist to protect both communities and individual consumers.
The letter, signed by multiple state and territorial attorneys general, urged the Department of Justice to take specific steps. These include blocking access to illegal gambling websites under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, seizing domains and servers tied to illicit operations, and working with financial institutions to halt related payment transactions.
Recommended