Michigan Cracks Down on Unlicensed Online Gambling

The Michigan Gaming Control Board remains committed to targeting gambling websites and online casinos operating without the requisite licenses in the Great Lakes State.

The regulatory body has announced its intention to intensify efforts across jurisdictions to combat offshore gambling within the United States. It has previously taken action by issuing cease-and-desist letters to several websites, including MyBookie.ag in January.

MGCB Demands Compliance from Gambling Sites Within Two Weeks

Currently, the board is addressing nine online casinos and has distributed cease-and-desist notices, as confirmed in an official statement shared on their website. These websites offer a variety of games of chance, including slots, roulette, craps, poker, and blackjack, as well as sports and horse racing betting.

The nine websites have been given a 14-day period to comply or face more severe repercussions. The MGCB has previously indicated that failure to comply may lead to the involvement of the state’s Attorney General’s Office. The targeted websites include:

• BetAnySports (BAS)
• CoolCat Casino
• Diamond Sportsbook International, d/b/a BetDSI.eu (BetDSI)
• Solar Game LTD and Busan Trade Office (Go Go Gold)
• My Dreams Casino
• NonStop Casino
• Palace of Chance
• Xbet Casino
• WagerWeb

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams emphasized the necessity of counteracting these gambling operations. He stated that the mentioned domains and companies are operating in Michigan in violation of local laws and pose risks to players.

‘Our role is to protect Michigan residents by ensuring that all online gambling activities are carried out legally and responsibly. These operators have 14 days to cease their illegal activities or face further legal action,’ Williams added.

The MGCB referred to a 2022 report by the American Gaming Association, highlighting the significance of addressing unregulated gambling, with estimates suggesting up to $510 billion may be wagered by Americans on offshore gambling sites.

Offshore Gambling Sites: A Risk to Consumers and Legitimate Businesses

These figures have likely decreased since 2023, as the widespread legalization of the domestic gambling market allows more individuals to engage with licensed sportsbooks and casinos.

Regulators across the United States have targeted well-known brands such as BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie, along with sweepstakes and other unauthorized websites in recent months. This indicates that regulatory authorities have recognized the risks posed by these platforms and are leveraging their legal authority to address them.

A more coordinated effort against the offshore gambling sector, similar to the initiative proposed by the MGCB, might finally be on the horizon.