With Super Bowl LIX just around the corner, Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown is alerting consumers to the potential scams that may target unsuspecting fans. Scammers have been working all year long to devise new ways to take advantage of people looking to enjoy the big game, particularly in areas such as betting, tickets, prizes, streaming services, and merchandise. Consumers can subscribe to this list here: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDAG/subscriber/new
In an official warning issued to subscribers of the Maryland Attorney General’s consumer alerts, Brown highlighted common scams consumers should watch out for as they prepare for the Super Bowl:
Common Super Bowl Scams:
- Online Betting Scams – Scammers may lure bettors to illegal websites that promise high payouts but refuse to pay out winnings. These sites may also compromise your personal and financial information. To protect yourself, only use licensed sportsbooks regulated by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. A list of legal operators in Maryland is available on the Maryland Lottery and Gaming website. FAQ section: https://www.mdgaming.com/welcome/faqs/.
- Phishing Scams – Be wary of emails or messages claiming that you’ve won free tickets or exclusive Super Bowl prizes. These fraudulent messages often lead to fake websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
- Counterfeit Merchandise – Scammers frequently sell knockoff Super Bowl memorabilia, including jerseys and hats, at seemingly too-good-to-be-true prices. To ensure authenticity, only purchase merchandise from official retailers.
- Streaming Scams – Links promoting “free live Super Bowl streaming” can expose your device to malware. Stick to legitimate streaming services to avoid compromising your device’s security.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Verify Sellers: Always ensure that the seller is legitimate before making any purchases.
- Secure Websites: Look for “https” in the web address and a padlock symbol in the address bar to verify that the website is secure.
- Be Skeptical of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Use Credit Cards: Credit card transactions come with fraud protection, making it easier to dispute charges if something goes wrong.
- Moderation in Betting: Remember that gambling should be done responsibly. For help with gambling issues, Maryland residents can call 1-800-GAMBLER for free and confidential support.
As fans gear up for Super Bowl LIX, Attorney General Brown encourages consumers to stay vigilant against these common scams. For more consumer protection tips and to subscribe to receive alerts, visit the Maryland Attorney General’s consumer information page.
