High5Games has agreed to pay nearly $1.5 million and cease its unlicensed online casino activity in Connecticut, following a settlement with the state’s Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). The agreement resolves an investigation into the company’s operation of High5Casino without proper authorization.
The DCP’s Gaming Division launched the inquiry after High5Games was found offering sweepstakes-style casino services in violation of Connecticut gaming laws. On March 14, 2025, the agency suspended the company’s Online Gaming Service Provider license. That license was officially reinstated on May 22, but the company is no longer permitted to operate as a business-to-consumer (B2C) platform in the state.
Consumer Restitution and Regulatory Outcomes
The financial settlement includes $643,000 in direct refunds to 794 consumers who lost money on High5Casino. An additional $800,000 will support state-led programs for consumer education, complaint resolution, enforcement, and legal action.
“This case is just one example of the hard work our Gaming Division does to ensure a fair, safe and legal gaming market in Connecticut,” said DCP Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. “We are pleased the Connecticut consumers who were lured into placing wagers on an unlicensed platform will be made whole.”
DCP Gaming Division Director Kris Gilman echoed those sentiments: “We are satisfied with the outcome of this investigation, which has resulted in the return of funds to consumers who were harmed by the unfair marketing of an unlicensed sweepstakes casino.”
The investigation revealed that players on Connecticut’s self-exclusion list were able to access the illegal platform, compounding the seriousness of the violations. While High5Games did not admit guilt, the company agreed to the settlement, avoiding further legal action from the state.
Company Compliance and Broader Legal Challenges
High5Games stated that it exitedConnecticut’s sweepstakes market voluntarily and emphasized its continued commitment to regulatory cooperation. CEO Tony Singer highlighted ongoing investments in compliance systems, including advanced Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and geo-blocking via Xpoint, aimed at preventing unauthorized access.
In a broader move, the company also pulled its sweepstakes services from six U.S. states and Canada earlier this year. It has faced mounting scrutiny across multiple jurisdictions and was recently ordered to pay $25 million in Washington State over another unlicensed gaming case.
Despite setbacks, High5Games remains active as a content supplier for licensed platforms such as FanDuel and DraftKings in Connecticut and continues to operate in international markets. The company will submit quarterly compliance reports to Connecticut regulators through April 2026.
Sweepstakes casinos, including High5Casino, have drawn criticism from regulators in states like Michigan, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Lawmakers in New York are also considering banning such platforms, which operate under a model that allows users to purchase virtual currency that can later be redeemed for real prizes.
For those struggling with gambling issues, the Connecticut Problem Gambling Helpline is available at (888) 789-7777.
Source:
“Department of Consumer Protection Announces Settlement with High5Games over Operation of Illegal Online Casino” portal.ct.gov, May 29, 2025
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