Michigan regulator orders five illegal online gambling sites to shut down
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken enforcement action against five online gambling platforms accused of offering unlicensed services to residents in the state. Cease-and-desist orders have been issued to BoVegas Casino, BUSR, Cherry Gold Casino, Lucky Legends, and Wager Attack Casino.
According to the MGCB, these operators were targeting Michigan players without holding valid licences, in violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the state’s Penal Code. The regulator found that each of the platforms was accepting deposits and wagers from Michigan residents on a range of games including slots, blackjack, and sports betting, all without the required consumer protections mandated by law.
“These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB.
“We will not tolerate unlicensed gambling operations that exploit Michigan residents. Our top priority is to protect the public by enforcing the law and shutting down these illegal platforms.”
Details of the offending operators
The MGCB’s investigation revealed that BoVegas Casino offers slots and table games while ignoring Michigan’s strict licensing requirements, leaving players vulnerable to fraud and unfair gaming. BUSR markets itself as a sportsbook and casino but operates without the consumer protections required by Michigan law.
Cherry Gold Casino offers a variety of slots and table games but operates without a licence in Michigan, which leaves players exposed to potential risks. Lucky Legends presents itself as a platform with a “VIP experience” and attractive bonuses, yet it does so while sidestepping regulations intended to ensure fair play.
Meanwhile, Wager Attack Casino combines sports betting and casino gaming without a Michigan licence, exposing consumers to unregulated practices. Combines sports betting and casino gaming without a Michigan license, exposing consumers to unregulated practices.
Consumer risks highlighted
The MGCB has warned that players using these platforms face unreliable payouts, unfair gaming practices, and have no legal recourse in case of disputes. “These illegal operations, whether offshore or operating without a Michigan license, exploit players and put them at risk,” Williams said.
“We will continue to take strong action to protect the integrity of Michigan’s gaming industry and to ensure that residents have access to safe, legal, and regulated gambling options.”
The cease-and-desist orders require each operator to halt all gaming activities in Michigan within 14 days. If they fail to comply, further legal action will be pursued by the MGCB in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Ongoing regulatory efforts
This latest move follows a similar enforcement step in May, when the MGCB issued cease-and-desist orders to six other online gambling operators—Bonus Blitz Casino, DomGame, Royal Ace Casino, Slots Capital, Supernova Casino, and Wins Mania—for operating in Michigan without proper authorisation. These actions also violated the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and parts of the Michigan Penal Code.
The MGCB has been actively cracking down on illegal online gambling operators in the state. On May 12, the MGCB issued cease-and-desist orders to four unlicensed platforms—You Wager, Bet Pop Casino, Wager 7, and Discount Wager—for offering gambling services without state approval.
This follows earlier actions in May, when the MGCB ordered 14 other online gambling operators to stop their illegal activities. These included sites such as BetFlip, BetMania, Casino Castle, and others, all found to be operating without proper authorisation.
In April, the MGCB took similar steps against 13 offshore gambling websites for failing to comply with state laws on player protection, responsible gambling, and data security. This month, the MGCB had also hosted a human trafficking awareness training session for casino industry professionals, as part of an ongoing initiative to ensure Michigan’s gaming venues maintain high standards of oversight and safety.
The MGCB advises players to use only approved sites, which are listed on its official website. Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious or unlicensed gambling activity by calling 1-888-314-2682 or emailing [email protected].
