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Sports betting giant BetMGM updates terms of service to specifically prohibit athlete harassment with threat of account suspension.
The new terms state that BetMGM will suspend a customer’s account if they are found to use harassing or abusive language towards athletes, coaches, or related personnel. While harassment was previously included in the terms of service, the updates make special mention of athletes and professionals and offer more clarity around the process.
📣@BetMGM has updated our Terms of Service to explicitly prohibit athlete harassment.
Under the revised terms, we will suspend any customer account found to have used harassing or abusive language toward athletes, coaches, or team or league personnel.
This update brings added… pic.twitter.com/bFQJpq7ISq
— BetMGM News (@BetMGMNews) February 2, 2026
“We are unwavering in our commitment to sports integrity — and that commitment extends to safeguarding athletes, coaches and league personnel,” said Rhea Loney, BetMGM’s Chief Compliance Officer, in a statement to press. “Our legal, regulated environment enables us to identify misconduct, investigate reports, and take action when necessary. Any confirmed instance of harassment will result in decisive measures, including account suspension.”
Abuse ticks up during major sporting events
Although a NCAA study found that abuse levelled at athletes by bettors reduced in 2025’s March Madness when compared to 2024, over 3,000 messages were still found to be abusive. Abuse is also known to tick up during major sporting events, with gamblers using social media to harass athletes. It’s thought that having money at stake increases the inclination to harass or abuse those perceived to be at fault.
“As a professional athlete, I know how important respect is — both on and off the field,” said former running back and BetMGM ambassador Barry Sanders. “BetMGM is sending a strong message that harassment has no place in sports or sports betting. I’m proud to see BetMGM protecting athletes and promoting integrity.”
The update is in place across BetMGM’s systems around the world, including both mobile and desktop platforms and MGM Resorts properties. The company also deepened its responsible gambling initiatives through a partnership with BetBlocker last year that sought to reduce the risk of gambling-related harm.
Featured image: BetMGM
