In a bold step to protect consumers and uphold gaming regulations, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to 19 unauthorized online gambling sites accused of illegally targeting residents in the state. This enforcement represents the MGCB’s most extensive crackdown to date against operators violating Michigan gaming laws.
“These platforms operate in the shadows,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “They’re not just skirting the rules—they’re exposing players to serious harm. Our job is to stop them, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
Operators Told to Halt Operations Within 14 Days
According to the MGCB, each of the named platforms was found to be operating in violation of multiple state statutes, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Lawful Sports Betting Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code. They were directed to stop all activities targeting Michigan players within 14 days or face further legal repercussions, potentially including enforcement actions from the Michigan Attorney General’s office.
The affected platforms include:
- Bingo Village
- BITBET
- Café Casino
- Cocoa Casino
- Cyber Bingo
- Davinci’s Gold
- Desert Nights Casino
- Diamond Reels Online Casino
- Eclipse Casino
- Eternal Slots
- EuroBets Casino
- Fair Go Casino
- GoldWin Casino
- Ignition Casino
- Jackbit
- Jackpot Capital
- Paradise8
- Red Stag Casino
- Two Up Casino
“These illegal gambling operators threaten the safety of our citizens and the integrity of our gaming industry,” Williams said. “When companies offer games without proper licensing, Michigan players are left without the critical protections they deserve. That’s unacceptable, and we’re taking strong action to stop it.”
More Sites Under Investigation as Consumer Risk Remains High
The MGCB has also identified several other platforms currently under investigation for offering games and services without adhering to Michigan’s licensing standards. These include:
- BoVegas Casino
- BUSR
- Cherry Gold Casino
- Lucky Legends
- Wager Attack Casino
These operators are suspected of using deceptive promotional tactics, offering unauthorized sports betting and casino-style games, and failing to implement any regulatory protections for users.
Among the risks highlighted by the MGCB for players who engage with unlicensed platforms are:
- No guaranteed payouts
- No mechanisms for dispute resolution
- Exposure to potentially rigged or unfair gaming environments
Without state regulation, users of these illegal platforms have no recourse in the event of fraud or non-payment of winnings.
Enforcement Aims to Uphold Trust in Legalized Gaming
The MGCB reiterated its commitment to a fair, transparent, and legal gaming environment in Michigan. By eliminating bad actors from the market, the agency aims to preserve the integrity of the state’s licensed gaming operators and ensure the safety of all participants.
Operators who fail to comply with the cease-and-desist notices within the two-week window could be subject to escalated legal action in partnership with Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office.
Source:
“MGCB Cracks Down on Unlicensed Online Gambling with 19 Cease-and-Desist Letters”, michigan.gov, Jul 2, 2025
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