Pennsylvania regulator fines BetMGM $100,000 over KYC failures

Investigation shows long fraud period

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board issued the fine after a detailed review of BetMGM systems. The board said weak checks allowed fraud to run for many months — and possibly years.

More than $2 million in wagers were linked to fraud cases. These cases lasted between 25 and 34 months — a long period for such activity.

One group created 1,567 fake accounts using stolen details. Other groups made hundreds more accounts across the casinos. The scale raised concern — both for losses and for system control.

Weak checks allowed repeat abuse

The board said BetMGM did not fully check user identity or payments. This made it easier for fraudsters to return and act again — without strong limits.

Officials said the issue was not just one mistake. It appeared to be a wider problem in how checks were handled. Payment checks also showed gaps — which added to the risk. Hence, stronger rules may have stopped some of the damage.

Past cases add pressure on BetMGM

This is not the first action against BetMGM in the state. Earlier in 2025, the company paid $260,905 in another case. That case involved users on a self-exclusion list who still placed bets. Together, these cases show pressure on the company to improve controls.

Nevertheless, BetMGM closed the fake accounts once found. The company did not comment on the latest fine — leaving open questions.

Regulator adds more enforcement steps

The board also added 16 people to its exclusion list this week. These bans cover casinos, online services, and gaming terminals. Some cases involved adults leaving children alone while gambling — a serious safety issue. The board repeated its “Don’t Gamble with Kids” message — stressing the risk.

Key actions include:

• 16 people added to exclusion lists

• Cases linked to unsafe behavior near children

• Ongoing checks on online casino rules

Market growth continues despite concerns

At the same time, the state’s gambling market is still growing. Revenue rose 11.6% in January compared to last year. This creates a mixed picture — strong growth but rising concern.

Subsequently, the board may increase checks as the market expands. The next public meeting will take place on April 29 in Harrisburg — where updates may follow.