The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist notices to BetOnline.ag and SportsBetting.ag, both operated from Panama, for offering gambling services in the state without proper authorization. The orders come as part of a broader regulatory sweep targeting offshore betting operators that, according to the MGCB, violate Michigan’s gaming laws by accepting wagers from residents without holding a state license.

Operators accused of violating multiple state gambling statutes:

According to MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams, “The Michigan Gaming Control Board is committed to enforcing Michigan’s gaming laws and protecting consumers from illegal gambling. We encourage residents to only engage with licensed and regulated online platforms for a safe and fair gaming experience.”

The two platforms are alleged to have breached several Michigan statutes, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the state’s Penal Code. SportsBetting.ag, investigators say, has been accepting bets on everything from sports and politics to horse racing and virtual casino games. Additionally, the site reportedly offered cashback promotions for casino losses—another violation under state law.

Similarly, BetOnline.ag has been accused of offering illegal access to an array of betting options, including esports, live events, traditional sports, casino games such as slots and poker, and various contests. These offerings are allegedly being funded through several channels, including credit cards, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies, despite the operator lacking any Michigan licensure.

Neither site is approved to operate within Michigan, and both were given a 14-day deadline to halt their activities or face further legal consequences. Should they fail to comply, the MGCB stated it would coordinate with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to pursue enforcement actions.

Part of a wider campaign against offshore gambling operators:

The move against BetOnline and SportsBetting comes amid an uptick in enforcement activity by the MGCB. April alone saw over 20 cease-and-desist orders issued to unlicensed operators, continuing a pattern that has resulted in more than 40 such actions in the past year. Just last week, 11 offshore online casino sites received similar warnings from the agency.

The MGCB has expressed concern over the consumer risks posed by these unlicensed platforms, particularly as many lack safeguards commonly found in regulated environments. In addition to undermining the integrity of Michigan’s gaming framework, officials warn that these operations are sometimes accessible to individuals under the legal gambling age of 21.

“Sports betting is meant to be a form of entertainment, not a financial investment,” said Williams in the regulator’s press release. “By framing sports contracts as investment vehicles, these platforms risk confusing consumers and undermining the state’s commitment to responsible gaming.”

This is not the first time BetOnline.ag has drawn regulatory scrutiny. Similar cease-and-desist letters have been sent to the operator in other states, including Mississippi and Illinois. In Mississippi, the state’s gaming commission issued initial warnings in July 2024, followed by a second round of letters in December after no response was received. Illinois also directed enforcement actions against BetOnline and BetUS earlier this year.

The MGCB’s latest enforcement push also coincided with changes in the board’s leadership. Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently appointed Jim Ananich as the new chair, replacing Linda Forte. Ananich will serve in this capacity through December 2028. Other members of the board include Joni M. Thrower Davis, Mark Evenson, Deidre A. Lambert-Bounds, and Andrew T. Palms.