Online Sports Betting: Risks, Limits & Responsible Gambling Tips

Online sports betting is increasingly accessible, with 14% of U.S. Adults reporting they wager on professional or college sports online, either frequently or occasionally, according to a February 2025 survey. This rise in popularity coincides with growing scrutiny, as a number of sports betting scandals have recently made headlines.

The Expanding Landscape of Online Betting

The shift towards online sports betting has been rapid since the Supreme Court overturned a federal ban in 2018. Currently, 38 states, along with Washington, D.C., have legalized gambling, according to the American Gaming Association.

Did You Know? Since 2018, 38 states and Washington, D.C. Have legalized gambling.

Understanding the Risks

Experts caution that online gambling can present unique risks. Heather Eshleman, Director of Operations at the Maryland Center for Excellence on Problem Gambling, notes that potential losses can occur more quickly in digital formats due to ease and speed. New betting markets, like PredictIt and Kalshi, are also expanding opportunities to wager on events beyond traditional sports, including elections and celebrity news.

Caleb Silver, editor in chief of Investopedia, observes that “betting and ‘responsibly’ seem paradoxical, because if one bets, it’s all about risk.” Despite the inherent risk, the popularity of online sports betting and gambling continues to grow.

Protecting Yourself

For those new to online betting, establishing limits is crucial. Platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings offer optional safeguards to restrict time spent or money lost. Some applications even allow users to block access for set periods.

Experts recommend only using funds allocated for entertainment, not essential expenses like rent or groceries. As Silver states, individuals should determine their “point to walk away” and firmly establish those rules beforehand.

Expert Insight: The increasing convergence between sports betting, day trading, options trading and cryptocurrency markets suggests a growing need for financial literacy among those engaging in these activities.

Recognizing a Problem

A key warning sign of a potential problem is when betting online begins to interfere with other aspects of life, such as relationships with friends, family, and colleagues. Spending money on bets that could be used for basic needs is another red flag. Resources like the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline and Gamblers Anonymous are available for those seeking help.

Industry Response

Companies like FanDuel and DraftKings are implementing “responsible gaming tools,” including limits on time, money, deposits, and losses. FanDuel’s Cory Fox compares these safeguards to wearing a seatbelt, emphasizing the company’s commitment to responsible operation. DraftKings’ Lori Kalani likens setting limits to taking an Uber instead of driving after consuming alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of U.S. Adults are currently betting on sports online?

According to a February 2025 survey, 14% of U.S. Adults report wagering on professional or college sports online, either frequently or occasionally.

What is considered a warning sign of a potential gambling problem?

According to experts, a warning sign is dedicating time to online betting that takes away from other areas of life, especially relationships, or spending money on bets that should be used for essential needs.

What tools are available to help limit online betting?

Platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings offer tools to set limits on time, money, deposits, and losses. Applications like GambBan and BetBlocker can block access to betting sites.

As online betting becomes more integrated into the American entertainment landscape, understanding the risks and utilizing available safeguards will be crucial for a healthy and balanced approach.