Sports Betting Apps Under Fire for Aggressive Push Notification Advertising
As the NFL season begins, a growing chorus of concern is rising over the relentless advertising tactics employed by mobile sports betting apps, particularly the use of largely unregulated push notifications. Advocates warn these practices may be contributing to increased rates of domestic violence and financial hardship.
The surge in sports betting accessibility has been accompanied by a parallel increase in advertising, often delivered directly to users’ smartphones. The National Consumers League (NCL) argues that the current lack of oversight regarding these notifications is exacerbating the potential for addictive behaviors and negative consequences.
The Problem with Unregulated Notifications
Unlike text messages and emails, which are subject to consumer protection laws requiring options to unsubscribe from advertising, push notifications remain a Wild West of marketing. A recent study by the NCL revealed that a staggering 93% of notifications from the three most popular sports betting apps are advertisements, frequently prompting users to place additional bets.
“Actually with all three of the apps there’s no way to directly turn off advertising notifications,” a senior official at the NCL stated, challenging the notion that users have a simple way to opt out of the constant barrage of promotional messages.
Troubling Links to Harmful Behaviors
The concerns extend beyond mere annoyance. The NCL reports a disturbing correlation between sports betting habits and increased instances of domestic disturbances. “We’ve seen up to a 10% increase in partner violence associated with certain sports betting habits,” the official explained.
This finding aligns with a UCLA study that demonstrates a rise in domestic violence following losses by local sports teams in states with legalized sports betting. The study also indicated a 28% increase in bankruptcies within those same states. These statistics suggest a potential link between the accessibility of sports betting – fueled by constant notifications – and significant personal and financial crises.
Legislative Efforts to Curb Aggressive Tactics
Lawmakers are beginning to respond to these concerns. Democrats in Congress have proposed H.R. 9590, the SAFE BET Act, aimed at regulating advertising within the sports betting industry. Simultaneously, New York legislators are considering the Regulating Addictive Notifications Act, which would outright ban push notifications and text messages from mobile sports wagering operators.
The NCL has voiced its strong support for both initiatives. “And that is a proposal we support. And so we think there’s really room for improvement here,” the NCL official said.
However, the New York State Gaming Commission has so far remained silent on the matter, stating it does not take a position on pending legislation.
The debate over regulating sports betting advertising is just beginning, but the growing evidence of potential harm suggests that a more cautious approach to these rapidly expanding platforms is urgently needed.
