July 02, 2025
Largest enforcement action to date targets illegal gaming sites preying on Michiganders
DETROIT, July 2, 2025 — In its most sweeping enforcement action yet, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to 19 illegal online gaming operations found to be targeting players in Michigan without proper licensure.
This crackdown reinforces the MGCB’s ongoing, relentless efforts to safeguard the state’s gaming environment and protect consumers from the risks associated with unlicensed gambling platforms.
“Illegal gambling operators threaten the safety of our citizens and the integrity of our gaming industry,” said Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director. “When companies offer games without proper licensing, Michigan players are left without the critical protections they deserve. That’s unacceptable, and we’re taking strong action to stop it.”
Operators Ordered to Cease Activity
The following platforms were among those found to be in direct violation of Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Lawful Sports Betting Act, and related laws, including the Michigan Penal Code. Each was ordered to immediately halt operations in the state:
Additional Sites Under Scrutiny
The MGCB also cited several other platforms in recent, active investigations, including:
Consumer Protection and Enforcement
Without state oversight of these sites—which accept deposits, offer wagers, and conduct promotions--players face significant risks, including:
“These platforms operate in the shadows,” Williams said. “They’re not just skirting the rules—they’re exposing players to serious harm. Our job is to stop them, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
Operators have 14 days to cease all activity in Michigan or face further legal consequences, including possible enforcement actions in partnership with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Know the Signs, Report Suspicious Activity
The MGCB encourages anyone aware of suspected illegal gambling to report it 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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