Michigan Gaming Control Board cracks down on 13 illegal offshore gambling websites
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken firm action against 13 offshore gambling websites that were illegally targeting Michigan residents. These websites—including Captain Jack Casino, Casino Brango, Ducky Luck Casino, El Royale Casino, Jazz Casino, Jazz Sports Casino Racebook, Looselines, Planet 7 Casino, Red Dog Casino, Royal Oak Casino, Silver Oak Casino, Skybook, and Slots of Vegas—were operating without state licences, in breach of Michigan law.
The operators behind these sites are based in places such as Curaçao, Costa Rica, and the Autonomous Island of Anjouan. The MGCB has issued cease-and-desist orders, demanding that they stop offering gambling services to people in Michigan.
Henry Williams, Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board said, “These illegal gambling websites put Michigan residents at significant personal and financial risk.”
“Our priority is to maintain a secure and regulated gaming environment. These websites not only violate Michigan’s laws but also engage in deceptive practices that endanger consumers, including withholding winnings and imposing unfair wagering requirements.”
The websites, which allowed Michigan players to gamble using a variety of payment methods—such as credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies—engaged in dishonest practices, such as restricting withdrawals and demanding players meet high, often unreasonable, wagering thresholds before accessing their funds. These practices put users at risk of losing money and created an unfair gambling experience.
In addition, they also failed to meet Michigan’s standards for responsible gaming, consumer protection, or data security, putting users at further risk of fraud and identity theft.
The MGCB’s action sends a strong message to offshore operators attempting to bypass state laws. The cease-and-desist letters require them to stop all illegal activities within 14 days. If they fail to comply, the MGCB may work with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to take legal action.
“These relentless actions are part of our ongoing effort to provide a transparent and trustworthy gaming environment for all Michigan residents,” Williams added. “We will continue to take necessary steps to protect players and maintain the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry.”
The MGCB urged Michigan residents to use only gambling websites that are authorised and licensed by the state. A list of approved operators is available on the official website at Michigan.gov/MGCB. Anyone who comes across illegal gambling activity or suspicious websites is also encouraged to report it by calling the MGCB hotline on 1-888-314-2682 or emailing [email protected].
