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Sports Betting Scams Surge During Big Games
Experts warn fans to be wary of fake ads, cloned websites, and deepfake celebrity endorsements
Published on Feb. 6, 2026
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Cybercriminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence to create convincing sports betting scams, including fake ads, cloned websites, and deepfake celebrity videos, all designed to rush fans into clicking before they stop to think. These scams often mimic trusted betting companies or familiar celebrity endorsements, making them hard to spot. Experts advise fans to be cautious, avoid clicking links directly from ads or emails, and use credit cards for added fraud protection.
Why it matters
As AI technology continues to advance, these sophisticated sports betting scams are becoming more prevalent, especially during major sporting events when fans are excited and distracted. Falling for these scams can lead to financial losses and identity theft, making it crucial for consumers to be aware of the warning signs.
The details
Scammers are capitalizing on the urgency and distraction that come with major sporting events like the Super Bowl. They create fake ads, emails, or texts that feature a well-known celebrity endorsing a sports betting platform. However, the celebrity video is a deepfake, created using AI. When users click the link, they're taken to a website that looks identical to the legitimate betting platform, where they're prompted to log in and place a bet, unknowingly handing over their credentials to the scammers.
- Scammers are increasingly using these tactics during major sporting events like the Super Bowl.
The players
Iskander Sanchez-Rola
Director of AI Innovation at Norton, a cybersecurity expert who spoke with Local 12 about these scams.
Norton Genie
A free tool designed to help users identify scams in real-time by analyzing screenshots of suspicious links, ads, or websites.
What they’re saying
“What used to be very complex is now much simpler. AI can create convincing videos of celebrities talking about things that don't trigger suspicion—because it's exactly what you expect to see.”
— Iskander Sanchez-Rola, Director of AI Innovation at Norton (local12.com)
“When people are excited about a game or a last-minute opportunity, they're more likely to make quick decisions. Scammers know that.”
— Iskander Sanchez-Rola, Director of AI Innovation at Norton (local12.com)
“You can take a screenshot of a link, ad, or website and send it to Genie. It will guide you and tell you if it's suspicious—and even help you figure out next steps if you already clicked.”
— Iskander Sanchez-Rola, Director of AI Innovation at Norton (local12.com)
What’s next
Cybersecurity experts recommend using the free Norton Genie tool to analyze any suspicious links, ads, or websites related to sports betting, especially during major events like the Super Bowl.
The takeaway
As AI technology continues to advance, consumers need to be increasingly vigilant when it comes to sports betting scams, which are becoming more sophisticated and difficult to detect. Taking the time to verify the legitimacy of any betting-related links or ads, even in the midst of game-day excitement, can help protect against financial losses and identity theft.
