May 12, 2025
DETROIT, May 12, 2025 — The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to four unlicensed online gambling operators—You Wager, Bet Pop Casino, Wager 7, and Discount Wager—for offering illegal gambling services to Michigan residents. These platforms are in violation of Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.
You Wager
Established in 1998 and licensed in Costa Rica, You Wager is an offshore sportsbook that accepts players from the United States, including Michigan. The platform offers a comprehensive range of betting markets, including esports, MMA, NFL, and international soccer. Known for high betting limits, You Wager allows NFL spread bets up to $10,000, making it attractive for high-stakes bettors.
Bet Pop Casino
Bet Pop Casino (betpop.lv) is an online casino that operates without an official license in Michigan. Established in 2019, it is owned by First Fidelity Company. The casino offers a variety of games, including slots, roulette, blackjack, video poker, baccarat, and poker.
Wager 7
Wager 7 is an offshore sportsbook that offers a wide range of betting options, including NFL, college football, soccer, horse racing, and auto racing. The platform also features an online casino with games offering poker, craps, roulette, blackjack, pai gow, baccarat, and more. The site promotes "same-day payouts" and offers a buddy referral program that rewards users for bringing in new players.
Discount Wager
Discount Wager is an online casino that operates without an official license. Established in 2020 and owned by First Fidelity Company, it lacks clear terms and conditions and does not provide player protections associated with licensed operators.
Violation of Michigan Law
Investigations by the MGCB revealed that these offshore gambling sites were accepting wagers on various gambling activities, including sports and casino-style games, without the necessary state licensing. These operations violate Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code. Additionally, they pose risks to consumers, including the lack of player protections, responsible gaming safeguards, and legal recourse in the event of disputes.
“Illegal gambling operations prey on vulnerable consumers and undermine the integrity of the regulated gaming industry,” said Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director. “Michigan residents deserve the protections that come with licensed, legal gaming. We will continue to take strong action against those who skirt the law.”
Cease-and-Desist Orders
Each of the four operators has been ordered to cease all operations within Michigan immediately. They have 14 days to comply or face further legal action in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
The MGCB encourages residents to report suspicious or illegal gambling activity by calling 1-888-314-2682 or emailing MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov.
Gambling in any form is for entertainment purposes only. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 and is free and confidential. Michigan citizens can also visit the Responsible Gaming page of the MGCB website for information on self-exclusion programs including the Disassociated Persons List and the Internet Gaming and Sports Betting Responsible Gaming Database, and DontRegretTheBet.org for additional tools to game responsibly.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the state of Michigan. Learn more at Michigan.gov/MGCB.
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