Mississippi Takes Strong Action Against Unlicensed Online Gambling Operators
In a decisive move to safeguard its gaming industry and protect local consumers, the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) has issued cease-and-desist letters to several unauthorized online gambling operators. These operators are accused of illegally offering casino games and sports betting to Mississippi residents, violating both state and federal laws.
Legal Violations Leading to Enforcement Action
The enforcement action targets operators who allegedly breached several statutes, including the Mississippi Gaming Control Act, the Mississippi Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, and the Federal Wire Act. These operators, both domestic and offshore, have been found to provide sports wagering and casino-style games over the internet. Such activities are strictly prohibited outside of licensed, on-premises casinos in Mississippi.
In an official statement, the MGC confirmed that the cease-and-desist letters were distributed electronically and by mail. Some operators are accused of misleading Mississippi residents by using the branding of licensed casinos to make their illegal platforms appear legitimate.
Jay McDaniel, Executive Director of the Mississippi Gaming Commission, stated, "This includes the operator that has been using pictures of our licensed casinos to fraudulently lure customers to their illegal site." He referred specifically to instances where licensed casinos along the Gulf Coast had their images and logos used without permission in misleading advertisements on platforms like Facebook, falsely suggesting that online casino gambling was now legal in Mississippi.
Mississippi Law on Online Gambling
Under Mississippi law, all casino-style games and sports betting must occur at a licensed gaming establishment within the state. Online gambling, including activities such as "sweepstakes" casinos or sports betting sites accepting remote wagers, is explicitly prohibited.
“Our laws are clear that casino-style gaming and sports wagering are not allowed online in Mississippi, outside of a licensed casino,” McDaniel emphasized. “The MGC will aggressively pursue both domestic and offshore illegal operators. We are currently providing criminal case files to our state and federal law enforcement partners and requesting prosecution."
The MGC also highlighted that illegal gambling platforms not only evade regulatory oversight but also fail to contribute any tax revenue to the state. McDaniel added, “Companies like those put on notice today mislead our residents by claiming to be legal outlets, when in fact they operate illegally and without providing any tax revenue or other tangible benefit to Mississippi.”
Potential Risks for Mississippi Residents
The MGC’s warning also extends to Mississippi residents who participate in illegal online gambling. Individuals engaging in unauthorized betting activities could face legal consequences, including the potential loss of any money deposited with these illegal platforms. The MGC reminds the public that any game involving an element of chance and a financial investment, even if marketed as free-to-play, qualifies as illegal gambling under Mississippi law.
Moreover, the MGC pointed out that residents who have lost money or property to these unlicensed operators may be entitled to compensation under Mississippi law. The Commission encourages affected individuals to seek legal advice to explore potential claims under Miss. Code Ann. § 87-1-5.
Source: "Mississippi targets unlicensed online gambling operators with cease and desist orders," Real Money Action, June 19, 2025.