What Are the Most Notorious Sports Betting Scandals?
Sports betting scandals have plagued the world of competitive sports since its earliest days. From the infamous Black Sox scandal of 1919, when eight Chicago White Sox players took bribes to throw the World Series, to the current college basketball scandals of 2017 and 2018, the lure of easy money has always been a driving force in the world of sports betting. Here’s a look at some of the more notorious sports betting scandals in recent and not-so-recent history.
In 2007, NBA referee Tim Donaghy admitted to betting on professional basketball games, including some in which he was the referee. He had bet on over 30 games and was said to have influential connections to organized crime. Donaghy was sentenced to 15 months in prison and was required to pay a fine of $500,000 USD.
In 2011, the FBI brought down a massive sports betting ring in New York, with ties to the Gambino crime family. It was estimated that the ring had handled bets worth more than $3 billion USD in its five years of operation. The FBI seized more than $2 million USD in assets, including cash, jewelry, and a Ferrari.
In 2013, a major online poker site, Absolute Poker, was found to be in violation of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA). The site was found to have used a software program to allow players to see their opponents’ hole cards, giving them an unfair advantage. Absolute Poker paid a $300,000 USD fine and was forced to close up shop.
In 2014, Tom Condon, a former NFL agent, was found to have taken over $6 million USD in kickbacks from players he had represented. Condon was given a three-year probation and was required to pay a $20,000 USD fine.
In 2015, the NCAA charged several prominent college basketball programs with offering improper benefits to players. This included giving them cash payments and providing them with free trips. The scandal involved some of the biggest names in college basketball, including the University of Louisville and the University of Kansas.
In 2017, the FBI brought down a massive international sports betting ring involving more than $2 billion USD in bets. The ring had ties to organized crime in both the United States and Russia. The FBI seized more than $30 million USD in assets, including cash, luxury cars, and high-end watches.
In 2018, the FBI charged 10 college basketball coaches, agents, and financial advisers with bribery, fraud, and corruption. The scandal involved payments to players and their families totaling millions of dollars.
Sports betting scandals have been around since the dawn of competitive sports. From the Black Sox scandal of 1919 to the college basketball scandals of 2017 and 2018, the lure of easy money has always been a driving force in the world of sports betting. It is important to remember that betting on sports can have serious consequences, both for participants and for the sport itself.
How Have Sports Betting Scandals Impacted Professional Athletes?
Sports betting scandals have had a dramatic impact on professional athletes, with several notorious cases having occurred over the past few decades. The most high-profile of these scandals involved former NBA referee Tim Donaghy, who pled guilty to charges of accepting bribes from gamblers in 2007. Donaghy was accused of betting on games he officiated and providing inside information to gamblers in exchange for a total of $30,000 USD. The scandal, which resulted in a 15-month jail sentence for Donaghy, caused a significant amount of damage to the NBA’s reputation, as well as to the credibility of professional sports as a whole.
Another prominent sports betting scandal came to light in 2013, when MLB pitcher Kenny Rogers was accused of placing bets on professional baseball games. Rogers, who was found to have bet on at least five games, was suspended for the remainder of the season and fined $50,000 USD. His case highlighted the importance of maintaining integrity in sports, and served as a warning to other athletes against engaging in such activities.
The NFL has also been hit by sports betting scandals in recent years, with former players Pete Rose and Paul Hornung being banned from the league in 1989 and 1963, respectively. Rose was found to have bet on MLB games, resulting in a lifetime ban, while Hornung was suspended for the entire 1963 season for betting on NFL games. Both scandals were seen as a significant blow to the reputation of the NFL, and underscored the importance of maintaining a strict code of ethics when it comes to sports betting.
In addition to the professional athletes mentioned above, several other sports betting scandals have been uncovered in recent years. In 2019, former NBA player Tate George was sentenced to nine years in prison after pleading guilty to running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded investors of more than $2 million USD. George had also been accused of using the money to place bets on NBA games, and his case serves as a reminder of the potential legal and financial consequences of engaging in sports betting.
Overall, sports betting scandals have had a significant impact on professional athletes, with numerous high-profile cases occurring in recent years. These scandals have not only damaged the reputations of individual athletes, but have also caused a considerable amount of damage to the credibility of professional sports as a whole. As such, athletes should be aware of the potential risks associated with sports betting and should take steps to ensure that they are not engaging in any activities that are prohibited by their respective leagues.
How Have Sports Betting Scandals Impacted Professional Sports Leagues?
Sports betting scandals have had a major impact on professional sports leagues in the United States and around the world. On one hand, the scandals have exposed corruption, unethical behavior, and a lack of proper oversight in the sports world. On the other hand, they have led to increased public awareness of the dangers of sports gambling, and increased regulation of the industry.
The most infamous sports betting scandal occurred in 1919 when eight members of the Chicago White Sox were accused of throwing the World Series in exchange for money from a gambling syndicate. The players were found guilty, and the incident became known as the “Black Sox Scandal.” This scandal rocked Major League Baseball and led to the creation of the Commissioner’s Office, which is responsible for enforcing the sport’s rules and regulations.
In 2007, three University of Toledo basketball players were suspended from the team after they were found to have been involved in a sports betting ring. The players had bet over $50,000 on NCAA basketball games, and were found guilty of violating NCAA rules. This scandal highlighted the need for better oversight of sports betting, and the NCAA responded by strengthening its rules regarding sports gambling.
In 2013, the NFL was rocked by a scandal involving an assistant coach, Mike McAdoo, who had bet on NFL games. McAdoo was found to have bet on NFL games over a three-year period, and was suspended indefinitely by the NFL. McAdoo was the first NFL coach to be suspended for violating the league’s sports betting policy. The incident led to the NFL strengthening its rules regarding sports betting and placing restrictions on team personnel betting on NFL games.
In 2015, the NBA was rocked by a scandal involving referee Tim Donaghy. Donaghy was found to have bet on NBA games and to have provided inside information to gamblers. Donaghy was found guilty of two felony counts and was sentenced to 15 months in prison. This scandal highlighted the need for better oversight of referees and the NBA responded by increasing its monitoring of referees and imposing stricter penalties for any violations of its sports betting policy.
The scandals discussed above have had a major impact on professional sports leagues. They have highlighted the need for better oversight of sports gambling and have led to increased regulation of the industry. They have also increased public awareness of the dangers of sports gambling, and have led to stricter penalties for those found to be involved in sports betting.
What Are the Laws Surrounding Sports Betting in the USA?
Sports betting in the USA is governed by a complex web of laws at the federal, state, and local levels. In the USA, sports betting is currently legal in only four states: Nevada, Delaware, New Jersey, and most recently, Pennsylvania. All other states have either banned sports betting or have yet to pass legislation to make it legal.
The current federal framework for sports betting in the US dates back to the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. This law effectively banned sports betting in all states with the exception of Nevada. In 2018, the US Supreme Court struck down PASPA, opening the door for individual states to legalize and regulate sports betting within their borders.
State laws governing sports betting can vary depending on the state. For example, in Pennsylvania, sports betting is legal and regulated, while in New Jersey, the law explicitly allows for betting in person, online, or via a mobile device. In some states, such as Delaware, sports betting is legal only in person and a minimum age of 21 is required to place bets.
In addition to state laws, there are numerous federal laws that govern sports betting in the USA. The Wire Act of 1961 prohibits the use of the internet to place sports bets, while the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 makes it illegal to transfer money from US banks and financial institutions to online gambling sites. The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992, which was struck down in 2018, prohibited states from legalizing and regulating sports betting.
It is important for anyone considering placing a sports bet in the USA to be aware of all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Violating these laws can result in hefty fines and even jail time. For instance, in New York, the maximum penalty for illegal sports betting is a fine of up to $500 and/or up to one year in jail.
For those new to sports betting, it is important to understand the basics of how it works. Sportsbooks take bets on football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, and more. Bets can range from a basic wager on the outcome of a game to more complex bets such as parlays and teasers. Bettors are required to deposit money into their accounts before placing a bet, and winnings are paid out in USD currency.
In conclusion, sports betting in the USA is legal in only four states and is governed by a complex set of laws at the federal, state, and local levels. It is important for anyone considering placing a sports bet to be aware of all applicable laws, as violating these can result in steep fines and even jail time. For those new to sports betting, it is important to understand the basics of how it works in order to make the most informed decisions when placing a bet.
What Are the Consequences for Individuals Involved in Sports Betting Scandals?
Sports betting scandals have been making headlines for decades, and the consequences for those involved can be severe. For example, in 2019, an NCAA basketball betting scandal resulted in the arrest of 10 people, including four college basketball coaches, who were all charged with bribery, fraud, and corruption. The result was a combination of prison sentences and hefty fines, with the coaches facing up to 80 years in prison and fines up to $1.5 million USD.
Similarly, in 2020, a college football player was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit sports bribery, resulting in a sentence of five years in prison and fines of $10,000 USD. This sentence was later reduced to three years on appeal. In addition, the player was permanently barred from NCAA sports.
These are just two examples of the serious consequences that can result from sports betting scandals. In addition to prison sentences and fines, those involved are often banned from sports and stripped of their titles and awards. For instance, in 2017, the entire Russian men’s weightlifting team was disqualified from the Rio Olympics after several of its members were found guilty of doping. This resulted in a ban for life for all team members, as well as the forfeiting of all medals and awards won since the 2012 Olympics.
Sports betting scandals can also lead to financial losses. In 2015, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) fined the University of Louisville $5 million USD and vacated its basketball program’s wins from 2012 to 2015 after a bribery scandal involving a former assistant coach. In addition, the university had to return the money it received for its participation in the NCAA Division I basketball tournament, which amounted to $600,000 USD.
In some cases, sports betting scandals can even lead to criminal charges. In 2009, a college basketball coach and a former NBA referee were found guilty of taking bribes to fix games. As a result, they were both sentenced to prison and ordered to pay fines of $2.2 million USD and $500,000 USD respectively.
Sports betting scandals can have devastating consequences for those involved. Not only can they lead to prison sentences, hefty fines, and bans from sports, but they can also result in financial losses, criminal charges, and a tarnished reputation. For these reasons, it is important to remember that betting on sports is illegal and can lead to serious consequences for those caught engaging in these activities.
What Steps Are Being Taken to Prevent Sports Betting Scandals?
Sports betting scandals have plagued the industry for years, but steps are being taken to prevent them from occurring. The most effective prevention is education. In the United States, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is working to raise awareness about sports betting and the potential risks associated with it. They have developed resources for sports bettors, including advice on responsible gambling and understanding the odds.
In addition to education, the gaming industry is implementing more rigorous regulations to ensure the integrity of sports betting. For example, the Nevada Gaming Control Board requires that all sportsbooks licensed in the state adhere to a strict set of regulations, including the requirement that all wagers be approved by the board prior to being accepted. The board also conducts regular audits of sportsbooks to ensure that they are following the rules.
The NCAA has also taken steps to prevent sports betting scandals. For example, the organization has put in place a rule that prohibits athletes from wagering on any NCAA sport. Additionally, the NCAA has established a monitoring system that allows them to detect any suspicious betting activity.
In addition to these initiatives, sportsbook operators are using advanced technology to detect any suspicious betting activity. This includes using algorithms to detect patterns in betting activity, as well as monitoring betting patterns that may indicate insider trading. Many sportsbooks also require that bettors provide personal information, such as identification, before they can place a wager.
Finally, sports betting companies are investing in research and development to create more secure platforms. This includes using blockchain technology to make sure that all transactions are securely stored and tracked. Additionally, companies are investing in artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect any anomalies in betting activity.
In conclusion, there are a number of steps being taken to prevent sports betting scandals. These include education, regulation, monitoring, and technological advancements. By taking these steps, sportsbooks and the gaming industry are making sure that sports betting is conducted fairly and responsibly.
How Have Technology and Social Media Altered the Sports Betting Landscape?
Sports betting has evolved greatly in recent years, with technology and social media playing a huge role in this shift. In the past, sports bettors had to go to casinos, racetracks, and other physical venues to place their bets, but now more and more people are taking to the internet to place wagers. Social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, are now being used to promote and facilitate sports betting, while technology has allowed for the emergence of online sportsbooks and mobile betting apps. As a result, the sports betting landscape has been completely transformed, and this has had both positive and negative consequences.
One of the most notable effects of technology and social media on the sports betting landscape is the proliferation of sports betting scandals. In the past, scandals involving sports betting were few and far between, but with the advent of online betting and other digital platforms, the number of such scandals has skyrocketed. For example, in 2017, a man was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of running an illegal sports betting enterprise worth $2.4 million USD. The case was only made possible thanks to the use of technology, as the man had been using an online sportsbook to facilitate the operation.
Another major consequence of the rise of technology and social media in the sports betting industry is the emergence of sports betting syndicates. These are groups of people who pool their resources together in order to place larger wagers on sports events. Syndicates have become increasingly popular in recent years, and this is largely because of the ease of access offered by technology and social media. Syndicates are often made up of experienced sports bettors, and they can be used to place large wagers on sporting events with the hope of achieving greater returns.
Finally, technology and social media have also had an impact on the way sports betting is regulated. In the past, sports betting was largely unregulated and this allowed for a lot of illegal activity to take place. However, with the emergence of online sportsbooks and other digital platforms, the industry has been forced to become more regulated. This has made it more difficult for criminals to operate, as they can be more easily identified and tracked down.
Overall, the impact of technology and social media on the sports betting landscape has been considerable. From the emergence of sports betting scandals to the rise of sports betting syndicates, these changes have had both positive and negative consequences. However, it is clear that the rise of technology and social media in the sports betting industry has had a major impact on the way it is conducted.
What Are the Different Types of Sports Betting?
Sports betting is a practice that has been around for centuries, and there are many different types of bets available to gamblers. The most common type of sports betting is a simple wager on the outcome of a game or event, where the bettor wagers a certain amount of money on their chosen team or player to win. Other popular forms of sports betting include parlay bets, which allow a bettor to wager on multiple outcomes at once, and prop bets, which are wagers on specific events or outcomes within a game or event.
Point spread betting is another type of sports betting, where the bettor wagers on the margin of victory or defeat. In this type of bet, the bettor will pick a team, and then place a bet on the point spread, which is the number of points by which the team is expected to win or lose. For example, if the point spread is +3, then the bettor will wager on the team to win by more than three points. If the team wins by exactly three points, then the bettor will be refunded their bet.
In-game betting is a more recent development in the world of sports betting, and it allows bettors to place wagers on the outcome of specific plays in a game. For example, a bettor might wager $50 on a particular quarterback to throw a touchdown pass during the next drive. This type of betting is becoming increasingly popular, as it adds an extra layer of excitement to an already exciting sport.
Another popular type of sports betting is futures betting, which involves betting on the outcome of an event that will be determined at a later date. This type of bet is popular in sports like horse racing and golf, where a bettor can wager on the winner of a race or tournament before it takes place. Futures bets are often used to hedge against other bets, as they can provide a way to reduce risk while still having the potential to win big.
Finally, there is live betting, which allows bettors to wager on the outcome of a game or event while the action is taking place. This type of betting can be both exciting and profitable, as bettors can take advantage of changing odds and events as they happen. Live betting is becoming an increasingly popular type of sports betting, as it allows bettors to be more actively involved in the outcome of a game or event.
In conclusion, there are many different types of sports betting available to gamblers. From simple wagers on the outcome of a game or event to prop bets and live betting, there is something for everyone. Whether a bettor is looking for a low-risk wager or a high-stakes bet, there is sure to be a type of sports betting that will suit their needs.
What Are the Most Common Sports Betting Scams?
Sports betting has been around for centuries and unfortunately so have the scams. From the illegal bookies of the past to the online casinos of today, there are a variety of scams that target the unsuspecting sports bettor. While the scams may vary, the goal of the scammer is always the same – to make a quick buck off of unsuspecting bettors. Some of the most common sports betting scams include:
The bonus scam is one of the most common sports betting scams. This scam involves a sportsbook offering a bonus to a bettor, usually in the form of a deposit bonus. The bonus offer may seem too good to be true and it usually is. The bonus may come with a set of terms and conditions that aren’t made clear to the bettor, making it impossible to cash out the bonus. As a result, the bettor is left with a bonus they can’t use and the sportsbook is pocketing the bonus money.
Another common sports betting scam is the “sure thing” scam. This scam involves a scammer offering a bettor what appears to be a guaranteed win. The scammer will promise guaranteed returns on a bet, usually in exchange for a fee or a percentage of the winnings. The scammer will then disappear with the bettor’s money.
The “inside information” scam is another common sports betting scam. This scam involves a scammer claiming to have access to “inside information” on a team or a game that will guarantee a win. The scammer may even offer to share this information with the bettor in exchange for a fee. The scammer will then take the bettor’s money and disappear, leaving the bettor with nothing but a loss.
The “no risk” scam is another sports betting scam that is becoming increasingly popular. This scam involves a scammer offering a bettor a “no risk” bet. The scammer will promise that the bettor can make money without any risk, usually in exchange for a fee. However, the bettor is left with nothing but a loss as the scammer takes the fee and runs.
Finally, the “credit card” scam is a relatively new sports betting scam that bettors should watch out for. This scam involves a scammer offering a bettor a credit card that they can use to bet with. The scammer will claim that the card is “secure” and “guaranteed” but in reality the bettor is left with an empty wallet and a maxed-out credit card.
These are just a few of the most common sports betting scams that bettors should be aware of. Betting can be a fun and exciting way to make money, but bettors need to be aware of the potential risks involved. It’s important to research any sportsbook before signing up and betting, and to be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true. By staying informed and being aware of the common sports betting scams, bettors can enjoy their betting experience safely and responsibly.
What Are the Risks Associated with Sports Betting?
Sports betting has become increasingly popular over the years, with its estimated global market value reaching $155 billion USD in 2018 alone. But with the potential for big rewards can come big risks. Betting on sports can be an incredibly exciting pastime, but it carries risks that must be understood before entering the arena.
The most obvious risk associated with sports betting is financial. The majority of sports bettors lose money in the long run, with most estimates putting the figure at around 90%. Even for experienced bettors, the house always has the advantage and it’s important to remember that you can never guarantee a winning bet. Even if you do win, taxes will usually be due on any winnings over $600 USD.
Another risk is that of addiction. Betting can be an incredibly addictive habit and the risk of developing a gambling problem increases the more that it’s done. The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that 3.2-4.2 million Americans are problem gamblers, with another 8.6-10.2 million being at risk of becoming problem gamblers.
Then there is the risk of fraud and criminal activity. Sports betting is often linked to organized crime, and there have been numerous high-profile cases of fraud, bribery and match-fixing. In 2019, a group of international criminals were found guilty of fixing hundreds of matches across Europe and South America, resulting in winnings of at least $24 million USD.
The risks associated with sports betting can be mitigated by taking a few precautions. Firstly, it’s important to bet responsibly. Set a limit for yourself and stick to it – don’t bet more than you can afford to lose. Secondly, only use licensed, trustworthy bookmakers. And finally, be aware of the signs of gambling addiction and take action if you notice them in yourself or someone else.
Sports betting can be an enjoyable and profitable hobby, but it’s important to recognize the risks involved. While luck is always a factor, it pays to be aware of the potential pitfalls and to think carefully before placing a bet.
How Can Sports Fans Ensure They Are Betting Safely?
Sports betting scandals have made headlines around the world, highlighting the need for sports fans to ensure they are betting safely. For those just starting out in the world of sports betting, the importance of this cannot be overstated. To ensure the safety of your betting activity, there are several key steps to take.
One of the most important steps is to always bet with reputable, licensed bookmakers. This means researching the bookmaker prior to making a deposit. Look for reviews from customers, check for a valid gambling license and look for official endorsements from the sport’s governing bodies. Additionally, look for bookmakers with good customer service, a range of betting options and competitive odds.
It is also essential to set a budget and stick to it. Before placing any bets, identify how much money you are comfortable with losing, and stay within that limit. Never chase losses, as this can lead to more losses and even financial ruin. Additionally, it’s important to remember that sports betting is a marathon and not a sprint. Stick with a strategy, don’t be afraid to adjust your strategy if things aren’t working, and take a break if you are feeling overwhelmed.
When it comes to sports betting, it is also important to be aware of any potential scams. Be wary of bookmakers offering “guaranteed” wins and other forms of bonuses with unrealistic terms and conditions. Additionally, be aware that there are illegal gambling operations all around the world, so always make sure to research a bookmaker before making a deposit.
Finally, it is important to never share your account details or betting strategies with anyone, and to always keep your winnings confidential. It is also essential to only use secure payment methods approved by your bookmaker.
By following these steps, sports fans can be sure that they are betting safely and responsibly. With the right precautions in place, the potential for sports betting scandals can be significantly reduced.
What Are the Most Notable Sports Betting Success Stories?
Sports Betting Success Stories are not as widely publicized as the most notorious cases of sports betting, but there are some amazing accomplishments to be celebrated. Ben Schwarz is one of the most impressive, having made $2.5 million in 2018 by betting on sports. Schwarz achieved success by betting on a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. He was also able to accurately predict the outcomes of more than 80% of the games he bet on.
Another impressive success story is that of professional gambler, William Lee Bergstrom. In October 1985, Bergstrom placed a $777,000 wager on a single roll of the dice at the Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas. He won the bet and took home a total of $1.5 million.
The world of sports betting has also seen some impressive returns from professional punters. In 2017, a professional gambler named Zoltan Szabo earned $1.1 million in a single week by betting on a variety of European Soccer games. Szabo’s success is attributed to his ability to identify value bets and capitalize on them.
One of the most famous sports betting success stories is that of former professional poker player, Phil Ivey. In 2012, Ivey took a trip to the Borgata Casino in Atlantic City, where he won an incredible $9.6 million in baccarat. Ivey was able to achieve this feat by taking advantage of a loophole in the casino’s shuffling process, which allowed him to predict which cards were more likely to be dealt.
Sports betting can also be quite lucrative for individuals who have the right knowledge and skills. For instance, in 2018, a professional sports bettor named Tony Bloom won over $1.4 million by betting on football and basketball games. Bloom was able to capitalize on his knowledge of odds and line movements to make successful bets.
These stories are a testament to the potential rewards of successful sports betting. Although it is important to remember that sports betting is a risky endeavor, these success stories demonstrate that it is possible to make a significant amount of money by correctly predicting the outcomes of sporting events. For beginners, it is important to understand the basics of sports betting before placing any large bets. Additionally, it is important to have a good understanding of the sport, the teams involved, and the odds associated with each game before placing any bets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal age for sports betting in the USA?
The legal age for sports betting in the USA varies from state to state, but is generally between 18 and 21 years old. In some states, the minimum age for sports betting is as low as 18, while in others it is as high as 21. It is important to check your local laws before engaging in sports betting.
Is it legal to bet on sports in the USA?
Yes, it is legal to bet on sports in the USA, provided that all bets are placed with a licensed bookmaker or through an online gambling platform which is licensed in the state in which the bettor is located. However, certain states may have additional restrictions or bans in place, so it is important to check the local regulations before placing a bet.
Are there any US states that allow online sports betting?
Yes, there are several US states that allow online sports betting. As of 2021, states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee all permit online sports betting. Additional states are expected to legalize online sports betting in the near future.
What is the most common type of sports betting?
The most common type of sports betting is betting on the moneyline, where the bettor picks a team or athlete to win a game or match. This type of wager is simple and straightforward, and it offers the highest odds of any type of sports bet.
Are there any major sports leagues that allow sports betting?
Yes, there are a few major sports leagues that allow sports betting. Major professional sports leagues such as the NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLB all allow sports betting in certain states. Additionally, NCAA college sports betting is allowed in some states, such as New Jersey, Nevada, and Pennsylvania.
Are sports betting winnings taxable?
Yes, sports betting winnings are taxable. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers sports betting as earnings from a business activity and any winnings must be reported as income on a tax return. Depending on the amount of winnings, the taxpayer may need to pay federal income tax, self-employment tax, and state income tax.
Are sports betting websites regulated?
Yes, sports betting websites are regulated. In the United States, sports betting is regulated by the individual states as well as the federal government. The federal government regulates sports betting through the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. This law prevents sports betting from being conducted in all but a few states. Each state may set its own regulations for sports betting websites, such as the types of bets that can be made and the minimum age of bettors.