In a decisive move to protect its gaming industry and consumers, the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) has issued cease-and-desist letters to a number of unauthorized online gambling operators accused of illegally offering casino games and sports betting to Mississippi residents.
Online Gambling Sites Warned for Breaking State and Federal Law
The enforcement action focuses on companies allegedly violating a range of state and federal statutes, including the Mississippi Gaming Control Act, the Mississippi Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, and the Federal Wire Act. These operators—both domestic and offshore—have been found providing sports wagering and casino-style games over the internet, which is strictly prohibited outside of licensed, on-premises casinos in Mississippi.
According to a statement released by the MGC, the letters were distributed both electronically and by mail. The operators in question are accused of targeting Mississippi consumers and even misappropriating the branding of legal casinos to deceive users into thinking these platforms were legitimate.
“This includes the operator that has been using pictures of our licensed casinos to fraudulently lure customers to their illegal site,” said Jay McDaniel, Executive Director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission. Several licensed casinos along the Gulf Coast had their images and logos used without permission in misleading advertisements on platforms like Facebook, falsely suggesting that online casino gambling is now legal in the state.
No Legal Online Gambling Except On-Site at Licensed Casinos
Under Mississippi law, all casino-style games and sports betting must take place on the physical premises of a state-licensed gaming establishment. Online gambling, including so-called “sweepstakes” casinos or sports books that accept remote wagers, is explicitly forbidden.
“Our laws are clear that casino style gaming and sports wagering are not allowed online in Mississippi, outside of a licensed casino,”McDaniel stated. “The MGC will aggressively pursue both domestic and offshore illegal operators, and the MGC is currently providing criminal case files to our state and federal law enforcement partners and requesting prosecution.”
The Commission further emphasized that these illegal platforms not only operate without oversight, but also contribute no tax revenue to the state. “Companies like those put on notice today mislead our residents by claiming to be legal outlets, when in fact they operate illegally and without providing any tax revenue or other tangible benefit to Mississippi,” McDaniel added.
Mississippi Residents Also at Risk
The Commission’s warning extended beyond the operators to individual users. Residents engaging in illegal online betting activities may face legal repercussions, including the potential forfeiture of any money deposited with these sites. The MGC cautions that any game involving an element of chance, the opportunity to win something of value, and any level of financial input qualifies as illegal gambling under state law —even if promoted as free-to-play.
Additionally, the MGC noted that residents who have lost money or property to these unlicensed operators may be entitled to seek compensation under Mississippi law. Affected individuals are encouraged to consult legal counsel to explore possible claims under Miss. Code Ann. § 87-1-5.
Source:
“Mississippi Gaming Commission Issues Cease and Desist Letters to Illegal Online Gaming Operators”, msgamingcommission.com, Jun 17, 2025
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