Michigan Regulator Boots Out Five Illegal Online Casino Operators

Michigan’s eradication of illegal gambling sites is still in full force.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) on Wednesday sent cease and desist letters to five offshore online casino operators that were operating illegally in the state. That brings the total to 15 letters sent by the regulator to nefarious platforms since February. 

The five newest recipients, BetWhale Casino, Black Lotus Casino, Coins Game Casino, Love2play Casino, and Orion Stars 777 Players, never obtained operator’s licenses from the state regulator.

Banning online casino offshore operators

Michigan’s desire to shut down the illegal online casinos came down to multiple factors, including their lack of compliance with state law and the increased risk they presented to customers.

“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,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a release. “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.”

The MGCB claimed that the offshore operators were in violation of several laws.

The first of those, the Lawful Internet Gaming Acts, states that only licensed operators may provide online gaming platforms to Michigan players.

The second, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, stipulates that operating unlicensed online gambling platforms comes with a felony charge and can be punished through prison time and fines.

The third, the Michigan Penal Code, clarifies that any form of gambling includes three elements: consideration, prize, and chance. 

Maintaining a safe gambling marketplace

The companies that received the cease and desist orders will be liable to legal punishment from the MGCB and the Michigan Attorney General’s Office if they don’t halt operations within 14 days.

The MGCB said in its release that it aims to “[protect[ the well-being of Michigan residents and [ensure] that all online gaming activities are safe, fair and regulated.”

That’s especially important with the upcoming frenzy of March Madness betting, the most-bet event in American sports not called the Super Bowl. The MGCB placed extra importance on promoting responsible gambling ahead of this year’s tournament.

“We encourage Michigan residents to enjoy March Madness, but it’s vital that they do so in a way that keeps their well-being a priority,” Williams said.

Michigan is a leader in safe online gambling practices. Not only has it come after a variety of online casinos, but it was also one of the first states to kick leading offshore sports betting provider Bovada out of its jurisdiction. 

It has been successful in its campaigns against illicit operators in part because Gov. Gretchen Whitmer allocated funds to fight these platforms in her 2024 budget plan.