Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWire) -- 02/03/2017 --The NFL playoffs are nearing a close. The national focus is fixed upon just two remaining teams as the Atlanta Falcons will play the New England Patriots in the big game on Feb. 5. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), which provides problem gambling help through its 24/7 hotline to individuals throughout the state, takes this time to advise sports fans of the dangers of betting on the big game.

With fantasy football season over and betting lines set, New Jersey residents are gravitating toward the biggest event in sports. The popularity and competitive nature of the big game results in greater participation in illegal sports betting, but there are several dangers included with betting for this highly-televised game.

Even individuals who do not have a gambling problem can get caught up in betting at parties, with friends or in the workplace. Illegal sports betting engenders problems such as dealing with bookmakers and enforcers, who do not adhere to a set schepadule of payouts and collections. Furthermore, they can even use dangerous methods such as intimidation to elicit payment from their clients.

"Our goal is to spread awareness about the dangers of illegal sports betting and keep people safe," the CCGNJ's Executive Director Neva Pryor stated.

The CCGNJ offers a wide variety of services to residents such as public awareness and information, prevention programs, advocacy, treatment, intervention, outreach and training for professionals to help provide a sense of hope.

People who wish to learn more about the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey and how they help people who have a gambling problem that pertains to illegal sports betting or racetrack wagering in the Freehold, NJ, area can call their 24/7 helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or visit their website at http://800gambler.org/.

About The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is a non-profit, private organization dedicated to helping individuals seek help for their disordered gambling problem, and for concerned friends and loved ones to confidentially express their concerns about someone close to them. Their 24/7 hotline is 800-GAMBLER. The Council also works to train professionals in the fields of gambling addiction and recovery.

For more information, please visit http://www.800gambler.org.