Key Moments:
- The Michigan Gaming Control Board has delivered cease-and-desist letters to eight online casinos found operating without state licenses.
- These unregulated sites have violated multiple Michigan laws, exposing them to legal consequences and requiring immediate cessation of operations.
- Michigan’s regulated online gaming sector reported commercial and tribal gross receipts of $312.54 million in August, up 39.51 percent year-over-year.
Regulator Moves Against Unauthorized Gambling Sites
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has intensified efforts to maintain compliance within the state’s gambling industry by targeting eight online casino platforms deemed unlicensed. These operators were found to be offering casino-style and interactive betting services without securing the necessary state approvals, directly contravening local laws that require licensure for legal operation.
Details of the Enforcement Actions
The MGCB identified the following platforms operating in violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act: Bspin Casino, Everygame Casino, Everygame Sports Casino, Kudos Casino, PlayCroco Online Casino, Slots of Vegas, Spin Dimension, and Super Slots. By providing casino gaming without state authorization, these sites not only breached the Lawful Internet Gaming Act but also operated outside the tax and oversight requirements established under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. Additionally, their unauthorized business activities conflict with sections of the Michigan Penal Code, creating substantial legal exposure.
| Operator | Status | Key Regulatory Breach |
|---|---|---|
| Bspin Casino | Ordered to cease operations | No Michigan license (crypto-based platform) |
| Everygame Casino & Everygame Sports Casino | Ordered to cease operations | Operating without state approval |
| Kudos Casino | Ordered to cease operations | Operating without state approval |
| PlayCroco Online Casino | Ordered to cease operations | Operating without state approval |
| Slots of Vegas | Ordered to cease operations | Operating without state approval |
| Spin Dimension | Ordered to cease operations | Operating without state approval |
| Super Slots | Ordered to cease operations | Operating without state approval |
Potential Consequences for Noncompliant Operators
Operators that fail to comply with the MGCB’s cease-and-desist directives may have their cases referred to the Michigan Department of Attorney General. Legal action could then result in criminal penalties, financial fines, and long-lasting reputational setbacks, in addition to being potentially barred from the U.S. gambling market.
MGCB Executive Urges Compliance
MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams commented on the dangers presented by unregulated operators, highlighting a lack of protections and accountability for players. Williams stated, “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. 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.”
Risks Associated with Unlicensed Gambling Operations
Users of unauthorized gambling sites face heightened risks including withheld winnings, no responsible gaming tools, and potential misuse of their personal data. In contrast, state-licensed operators must adhere to comprehensive regulatory standards, providing oversight and accountability that protect players from such vulnerabilities.
Legislative Developments in Michigan
Current legislative review is underway for Senate Bill 511, which would legalize social wagering contests, including sports pools and betting squares. While this bill enables individuals to place small, friendly wagers without breaking state law, it does not expand commercial sports betting beyond already licensed operators.
Michigan Online Gaming Market Sees Continued Growth
Michigan’s regulated online gaming sector continues to demonstrate robust performance. In August, commercial and tribal operators generated gross receipts totaling $312.54 million, representing a 39.51 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Sports betting also saw $338.9 million in wagers, reflecting a nearly 21 percent rise year-over-year.
- Author
Daniel Williams
