The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued a cease-and-desist letter to Duranbah Limited N.V., the operator of MyBookie.ag, based in Curaçao. MyBookie.ag offers a variety of casino-style games, including slots, poker, and live-dealer games like blackjack, roulette, and craps, as well as betting on sports events and horse races.
MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring compliance with Michigan’s gaming regulations.
“Our investigation into MyBookie.ag found that their operations were accessible to Michigan citizens, which violates state laws,” Williams said. “We are taking strong action to uphold the principles of fair and legal gaming.”
MyBookie.ag offers numerous payment methods for deposits, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, various cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and others), and MoneyGram. However, withdrawals can only be made via Bitcoin or bank wire transfer.
The MGCB’s investigation revealed that MyBookie.ag’s operation of online casino-style games for paying customers, without a valid Michigan gambling license, breaches several state laws, including:
- Lawful Internet Gaming Act: Internet gaming is only permitted by licensed operators. Only casinos licensed under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act and federally authorized tribal casinos within Michigan may apply for such a license.
- Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act: Operating a gambling business without an MGCB-issued license is a felony, carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $100,000, or both.
- Michigan Penal Code: Gambling, which involves consideration, prize, and chance, is broadly prohibited. Accepting money or anything of value with the understanding that it will be paid based on the outcome of an uncertain event is illegal.
Duranbah Limited N.V. has 14 days from receipt of the letter to cease offering gambling services to Michigan residents, as required by the cease-and-desist letter. If the company fails to comply, the MGCB is prepared to collaborate with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office for further legal actions.
