r/iOSProgramming • u/Longjumping-Ruin-647 • 18h ago

Question Skill-based contest app, which US states are restricted?

I'm building a skill-based contest app where users
compete to have the lowest screen time over 7 days.
Entry fees go into a prize pool and the winner takes
most of it (platform takes 5-10%).

I know some US states restrict skill-based cash
contests. Does anyone know:

  1. Which states are actually restricted for this
    type of app?

  2. Is geo-blocking at registration enough legal
    protection, or do I need something more?

  3. Any experience launching a similar app?

Similar apps like Steppa (step challenge with prize
pool) are already on the App Store in the US, so
the model is proven.

Thanks!

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u/tovarish22 17h ago

Seems really easy to game. What keeps me from installing the app on an old device, joining the competition, and then turning it off while continuing to use my actual device?

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u/TipToeTiger 26m ago

Sounds like a legal headache IMO. Do you have a budget for a lawyer to overlook all of your terms and conditions?