TLDR DraftKings denied using AI to find customers likely to lose money. VIP hosts must randomly check 10 customers each month for signs of problem gambling. Self-excluded bettors get no promotions or marketing messages. DraftKings waits at least 30 days after a cool-off ends before marketing again. The SAFE Bet Act, first introduced in 2024, has not moved forward.
DraftKings has told members of Congress that it does not use artificial intelligence to find customers who are likely to lose money. The sports betting company also denied that it sends more marketing to people who show signs of a gambling problem.
The response came after questions from US Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Reps. Paul Tonko of New York and Valerie Foushee of North Carolina. All three are Democrats who want stronger safeguards for sports betting.
“DraftKings does not target anyone based on indicators of potential problem gaming, nor does it seek to identify the customers most likely to lose and get them to bet more,” the company told the lawmakers.
How DraftKings Says Its VIP Program Works
A large part of the company’s answer focused on its VIP hosts. These employees work with high-volume players and help make sure those customers choose DraftKings over rival platforms.
DraftKings said its VIP hosts receive “responsible engagement training.” Each month, every host must randomly pick 10 of their customers for a “responsible engagement check.”
Congress asked DraftKings how much its rewards-program customers win or lose.
DraftKings refused to provide numbers, calling them “competitively sensitive.” The company says its VIP program is about improving customer experience.
Then why keep financial results from Congress? pic.twitter.com/Br3dYKQcjC
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During these checks, the host contacts the player and asks three questions. The host asks