Michigan Targets Offshore Casinos With Cease-and-Desist Orders

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has intensified its enforcement efforts against unregulated online casinos, issuing cease-and-desist orders to five offshore operators that have been providing gambling services illegally within the state. The regulator asserts that these sites are in direct violation of Michigan’s gambling laws and must halt operations immediately.

Offshore Operators Identified in Enforcement Action

The five online casinos named by the MGCB in its crackdown include BetWhale Casino, Coins Game Casino, and Love2play Casino—each based in Curaçao—along with Black Lotus Casino, which operates out of Belize, and Orion Stars 777 Players, linked to China. These platforms offer a variety of gambling options, including slot games, poker, blackjack, bingo, Keno, and sports betting.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams underscored the dangers posed by these unauthorized platforms. “These illegal platforms not only violate Michigan’s gaming regulations but also put consumers at risk by offering unreliable withdrawal options and lacking essential consumer protections,” he stated. “Our top priority is safeguarding Michigan residents by ensuring that all online gaming activities are conducted legally and safely. These operators must stop their activities or face additional legal consequences.”

Violations of Michigan’s Gambling Laws

The MGCB determined that the targeted offshore casinos are in breach of several Michigan laws, including:

• Lawful Internet Gaming Act – Michigan law restricts online gambling to licensed entities only.
• Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act – Operating an unlicensed casino is classified as a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison or fines reaching $100,000.
• Michigan Penal Code – Gambling operations requiring a wager with the expectation of a prize based on chance are illegal.

Concerns have also been raised over the withdrawal policies of these offshore sites, as some require players to meet excessive wagering requirements before cashing out, making it difficult for consumers to access their winnings.

The cease-and-desist orders give the operators a 14-day deadline to leave the Michigan market. If they fail to comply, the MGCB has pledged to work with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to take legal action.

Michigan’s Aggressive Stance on Illegal Gambling

Michigan has consistently taken a hardline approach to unlicensed gambling. In recent months, the MGCB has issued several enforcement orders, including one against BetNow.eu. The regulator has also taken action against nine additional unlicensed online operators, some of which attempted to bypass regulations by presenting themselves as sweepstakes gaming platforms.

Previous legal action in the state has also targeted well-known offshore brands such as Bovada and MyBookie, as well as sweepstakes companies like VGW and One Country. These efforts have positioned Michigan as one of the most proactive U.S. states in regulating unauthorized online gambling.

Strengthening Consumer Protections

To bolster regulatory oversight, Michigan has allocated nearly $2 million from its 2025 budget to enhance internet gaming and sports betting enforcement. Governor Gretchen Whitmer approved this funding to help authorities combat illegal gambling and strengthen consumer protections.

At a gaming law conference last year, Williams reinforced the MGCB’s commitment to enforcement, stating, “If people choose to ignore the law and don’t do what’s legal, we’re going to find them and hold them accountable for their actions.”

Michigan players are encouraged to verify the legitimacy of gambling sites through the MGCB’s official website atMichigan.gov/MGCB. Individuals who suspect illegal gambling activities can report concerns via the MGCB’s confidential hotline at 1-888-314-2682 or by emailing [email protected].

Source:

Michigan Targets Offshore Online Casinos for Violating State Laws, lcb.org, March 9, 2025.