Michigan Cracks Down on Eight Illegal Online Casinos
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has stepped up its enforcement efforts by directing eight unlicensed online casinos to immediately cease their gambling activities within the state. On September 23, 2025, the regulator revealed that formal cease-and-desist letters had been delivered to the operators, all of which had been running online casinos or sports betting platforms without state approval.
Among those identified were Bspi, Everygame Casino, Everygame Sports Casino, Kudos, PlayCroco Online Casino, Slots of Vegas, Spin Dimension, and Super Slots.
“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,” explained Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB. “Our message is simple: If you want to offer gambling in Michigan, follow the law or we will stop you.”
Breach of State Gambling Statutes
The MGCB noted that the offshore operators violated several Michigan statutes, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and provisions of the state Penal Code. Each of these laws requires that online gambling and sports betting platforms be properly licensed under the authority of the board.
By bypassing licensing, the operators avoided meeting requirements such as independent game testing, responsible gambling obligations, and financial oversight. The cease-and-desist orders require that all activity targeting Michigan residents be halted immediately. If ignored, the cases could be escalated to the Michigan Department of Attorney General for additional enforcement measures.
Statewide Push Against Offshore Platforms
Despite the success of Michigan’s regulated online market which, as of August 2025, has generated over $9 billion in lifetime revenue, offshore platforms remain an ongoing challenge. According to the American Gaming Association, U.S. consumers collectively wager more than $670 billion each year with unlicensed gambling websites, demonstrating the scale of the problem nationwide.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has voiced support for federal action that could reduce the presence of offshore platforms and ensure that gambling revenues contribute to local tax structures rather than leaving the country.
Informing Players Through Public Campaigns
Alongside enforcement, the MGCB continues to expand its Play It Smart, Michigan initiative. This public awareness program warns residents of the dangers of using illegal gambling platforms and helps them recognize authorized operators. The campaign includes a dedicated webpage, informational video materials shared through social media, and a regularly updated list of licensed casinos.
“Fake ads can look convincing, sometimes even using familiar logos or names, but they can be nothing more than a gateway to offshore sites that put players at risk,” Williams cautioned.
Residents are urged to confirm licensing information at Michigan.gov/MGCB and to report suspected illegal operators by calling 1-888-314-2682 or emailing MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov.
Why Legal Gambling Platforms Are Essential
The regulator emphasized that, beyond compliance, legitimate casinos in Michigan must adhere to responsible gambling requirements and fair gaming practices. Licensed casinos provide tools like self-exclusion programs, deposit and spending limits, and access to 1-800-GAMBLER support services. They also employ certified game providers such as IGT and NetEnt, ensuring the integrity of random number generators used in slot and table games.
Unregulated operators, on the other hand, frequently use misleading promotions to attract customers. Offshore sites are known to impose extreme wagering requirements on bonuses, sometimes surpassing 30x playthrough. By contrast, legal Michigan platforms operate with clearer conditions, such as Caesars Palace’s 15x requirement or Fanatics Casino’s new-player bonus needing just 1x wagering.
The MGCB reiterated that keeping gambling activity within the regulated environment is essential to protect consumers, support tax revenue, and maintain accountability across the industry.
Source:Michigan orders eight unlicensed online casinos to stop operations, LCB.org, September 28, 2025.