The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to 15 unlicensed online gambling operators found targeting Michigan residents without state authorization. The enforcement action underscores the agency’s continued relentless commitment to protecting players, ensuring fair play, and safeguarding personal and financial information from the risks posed by illegal gaming platforms.
The operators ordered to stop offering gambling in Michigan are: 7 Bit Casino, Avia Games Inc., Grande Vegas Casino, High Country Casino, i Net Bet, Liberty Slots Casino, Lincoln Casino, Lucky Hippo Casino, Miami Club Casino, PrimaPlay Casino, Slot Madness, Slots Plus Casino, Sun Palace Casino, Vegas Casino Online, and Vegas2Web Casino.
“These unlawful operators try to present themselves as legitimate entertainment options, but they offer zero player protections, no accountability, and a real risk to consumers,” said Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director. “Our message is simple: If you want to offer gambling in Michigan, follow the law or we will stop you. We will continue to work aggressively to keep illegal gambling out of our state.”
Under Michigan law, internet gaming and sports betting may only be offered by MGCB-licensed operators. The 15 entities named in the cease-and-desist letters were found offering casino-style games or interactive wagering without the required licensing—violating the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.
Unlike licensed operators, these sites are not subject to independent testing or consumer protection requirements. Each has been directed to immediately halt any Michigan-facing operations. Failure to comply could result in further enforcement actions in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
The MGCB’s “Play It Smart, Michigan” campaign raises awareness about the dangers of illegal gambling and helps residents identify unlicensed operators. A new “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” webpage on the agency’s website explains the difference between authorized and unauthorized gaming in Michigan, offers tips on identifying illegal operators, and lists all internet gaming and internet sports betting operators licensed by the agency.
“Fake ads can look convincing—sometimes even using familiar logos or names—but they can be nothing more than a gateway to offshore sites that put players at risk,” Williams said. “Through our Play It Smart, Michigan campaign, we’re giving Michiganders the tools they need to tell the difference between safe, legal play and dangerous, illegal operations.”
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