September 23, 2025
DETROIT, Sept. 23, 2025 — The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to eight unlicensed online gambling operators found targeting Michigan residents without state authorization. This enforcement action reinforces the agency’s mission to protect players, ensure fair play, and safeguard personal and financial information from the risks posed by illegal gaming platforms.
The operators ordered to stop offering gambling in Michigan are:
“These unlawful operators try to present themselves as legitimate entertainment options, but they offer zero player protections, no accountability, and a real risk to consumers,” said Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director. “Our message is simple: If you want to offer gambling in Michigan, follow the law or we will stop you. We will continue to work aggressively to keep illegal gambling out of our state.”
What the Orders Mean
Under Michigan law, internet gaming and sports betting may only be offered by MGCB-licensed operators. The eight entities named in the cease-and-desist letters were found offering casino-style games or interactive wagering without the required licensing—violating the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.
Unlike licensed operators, these sites are not subject to independent testing or consumer protection requirements. Each has been directed to immediately halt any Michigan-facing operations. Failure to comply could result in further enforcement actions in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Play It Smart, Michigan
The MGCB’s Play It Smart, Michigan campaign raises awareness about the dangers of illegal gambling and helps residents identify unlicensed operators. A “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” webpage on the agency’s website explains the difference between authorized and unauthorized gaming in Michigan, offers tips on spotting illegal operators, and lists all internet gaming and internet sports betting operators licensed by the agency.
“Fake ads can look convincing—sometimes even using familiar logos or names—but they can be nothing more than a gateway to offshore sites that put players at risk,” Williams said. “Through our Play It Smart, Michigan campaign, we’re giving Michiganders the tools they need to tell the difference between safe, legal play and dangerous, illegal operations.”
Michiganders can learn about common tricks used in fake ads and the warning signs to watch for. Informational videos about how to spot fake ads are also available on the agency’s Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram channels.
Risks to Players
Players can confirm whether a site is licensed in Michigan by visiting Michigan.gov/MGCB.
To report suspected illegal gambling:
The MGCB urges players to play it smart and be cautious when engaging with online gambling content promoted through digital ads, social media, or email. If it’s not on the state’s licensed list, it’s not safe.
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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