Michigan Takes Action Against 13 More Offshore Gambling Sites
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) continues to uphold the integrity of the state’s gambling regulations by taking decisive action against 13 illegal offshore gambling websites. The flagged sites include notable names such as Captain Jack Casino, Casino Brango, Ducky Luck Casino, El Royale Casino, Jazz Casino, Jazz Sports Casino Racebook, Looselines, Planet 7 Casino, Red Dog Casino, Royal Oak Casino, Silver Oak Casino, Skybook, and Slots of Vegas.
Significant Violations of Michigan Law
Each of these offshore gambling sites has been operating in Michigan without the necessary state licenses, resulting in violations of Michigan law. The operations of these websites, which are based in jurisdictions such as Curaçao, Costa Rica, and the Autonomous Island of Anjouan, led the MGCB to issue cease-and-desist orders to the operators.
Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB, stated, “These illegal gambling websites put Michigan residents at significant personal and financial risk.” He emphasized that the board’s primary focus is to provide a secure and regulated gaming environment.
“The websites in question not only contravene Michigan laws but also employ deceptive practices that jeopardize consumers, including withholding winnings and imposing unreasonable wagering requirements," Williams added.
Immediate Actions and Compliance Deadlines
The cease-and-desist letters require the operators to halt all unlawful activities within 14 days of receipt. Should compliance not occur, the MGCB is prepared to collaborate with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to pursue legal action against these unlicensed entities.
Engaging in Dishonest Practices
An extensive investigation conducted by the MGCB has uncovered that these offshore sites permitted Michigan players to gamble using various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies. Alarmingly, the investigation highlighted that these sites engaged in dishonest practices:
- Withdrawal Restrictions: Operators often restricted player withdrawals, forcing them to fulfill high, unreasonable wagering requirements before accessing their funds.
- Consumer Protection Failures: These sites do not meet Michigan’s stringent standards for responsible gaming practices, consumer protection, or data security.
Continued Enforcement Against Unregulated Operators
The MGCB’s aggressive stance against unregulated gambling sites is evident through their recent actions. Last week, they also issued cease-and-desist letters to 11 additional offshore gambling websites, including Bet Big Dollar Casino, Blood Moon Casino, DogsFortune, Grand Eagle Online Casino, Highway Casino, Jumba Bet Casino, Las Atlantis Casino, Ruby Slots Casino, Shazam Casino, SlotsRoom, and Spinfinity.
Prior to this, the MGCB had sent enforcement letters to several other operators in February, including:
- BetAnySports (BAS)
- CoolCat Casino
- Diamond Sportsbook International, operating as BetDSI.eu
- My Dreams Casino
- NonStop Casino
- Palace of Chance
- Solar Game LTD and Busan Trade Office (Go Go Gold)
- WagerWeb
- Xbet Casino
Most recently, warnings were issued to Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino for conducting illegal gambling activities in Michigan.
The Importance of Licensed Online Operators
It is crucial for Michigan residents to understand that only licensed online gambling operators can legally offer online casinos and sports betting within the state. The launch of the first regulated casino sites in January 2021 marks a significant advancement in providing a secure gambling environment for residents.
In conclusion, the MGCB’s ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal offshore gambling websites not only protect consumers from financial and operational risks but also reinforce the importance of regulated gaming practices in Michigan. As the gambling landscape continues to evolve, compliance with state laws remains paramount for all operators seeking to serve the Michigan market.
