The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken significant measures to address illegal offshore gambling platforms unlawfully targeting Michigan residents. The sites in question—Shazam Casino, Highway Casino, SlotsRoom, Ruby Slots Casino, Las Atlantis Casino, Bet Big Dollar Casino, BloodMoon Casino, Spinfinity, Jumba Bet Casino, Grand Eagle Casino, and DogsFortune—were found to be operating without proper licensing and offering unregulated gambling services in direct violation of state laws.
Enforcement Measures
In response to these violations, the MGCB has issued cease-and-desist letters to the operators of these platforms, demanding the immediate suspension of their unlawful activities. Operating without Michigan-issued licenses, these websites violated several state regulations, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.
Safeguarding Michigan’s Regulated Gaming Industry
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring a safe, fair, and legal gaming environment for Michigan residents,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “Our actions today demonstrate our dedication to holding unlicensed operators accountable. By shutting down these platforms, we are not only preserving the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming market but also protecting residents from predatory practices and unreliable gambling experiences.”
Risks Associated with Unlicensed Platforms
These illegal websites exploited Michigan players through deceptive and unethical practices. Payment methods such as credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies were used to lure players into high-risk gambling environments. Players reported unfair practices, including withholding winnings and imposing excessive wagering requirements—forcing deposits to be wagered multiple times before accessing payouts, which violates Michigan’s legal protections for consumers.
Beyond financial risks, these unregulated platforms failed to meet state standards for responsible gaming, consumer protection, and data security. Users were left vulnerable to fraud, identity theft, and other potential dangers.
Warning to Offshore Operators
The cease-and-desist letters serve as a stern warning to offshore operators attempting to bypass Michigan’s gaming regulations. The MGCB has set a 14-day deadline for these operators to cease illegal activities. Non-compliance will prompt further legal action in collaboration with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
Guidance for Michigan Residents
The MGCB advises residents to verify the legitimacy of online gambling platforms before engaging with them. Only state-licensed operators are authorized to provide legal iGaming services in Michigan. The MGCB maintains an updated list of approved operators on its official website.
Residents who suspect illegal gambling activities are encouraged to report them by calling the MGCB hotline at 1-888-314-2682 or emailing MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov.
Ongoing Commitment to Market Integrity
The Michigan Gaming Control Board remains vigilant in overseeing the online gaming landscape, ensuring all operators adhere to the highest standards of fairness, security, and consumer protection. These efforts are crucial to maintaining a safe and trustworthy environment for Michigan residents, safeguarding the integrity of the state’s regulated gaming industry.
