The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to six unlicensed online casinos
Key points:
- The MGCB’s cease-and-desist letters were said to represent the “latest step” in the Board’s “relentless, ongoing crackdown” of unlawful operators
- Those issued cease-and-desist letters could face further legal action in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General if any fail to comply
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to six unlicensed online casinos, including Fortune Horizon Casino, Goat Spins Casino, High Roller Casino, Slots.lv, True Fortune Casino and Vegas Gems Casino.
“These sites try to attract players with flashy ads and promises of big wins, but the reality is far riskier: no oversight, no consumer protections and no guarantee you’ll ever see your money again,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said.
“Michigan law is clear—if you want to operate here, you must be licensed. We will continue to hold illegal operators accountable and protect Michigan residents from predatory, unregulated gambling.”
Those issued cease-and-desist letters could face further legal action in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General if any fail to comply and were found to be in violation of the state’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Gaming Control and Revenue Act and Penal Code.
The MGCB’s cease-and-desist letters were said to represent the “latest step” in the Board’s “relentless, ongoing crackdown” of unlawful operators, as illegal casinos are not required to submit to independent testing, responsible gaming standards or consumer safeguards.
Good to know: Michigan Senator Veronica Klinefelt proposed Senate Bill 511 on September 22, which would allow for social wagering contests throughout the state
On September 19, the MGCB fined Caesars Sportsbook $100,000 following a technological error which allowed bettor Jeffrey Saco to deposit $2.1m without transferring funds from his personal bank accounts, having received eight felony charges as a result of his actions.
With the fake deposits, Saco wagered over $88m and withdrew nearly $600,000 in April 2023, having totaled 116 deposits prior to ceasing all activity on Caesars Sportsbook.
https://gamingamerica.com/news/14408/six-online-casinos-issued-cease-and-desist-letters-by-mgcb