The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has ramped up its enforcement actions, issuing cease-and-desist orders to 45 offshore gambling operators accused of offering unlicensed online casino games and sports betting to Michigan residents. This latest crackdown underscores the state’s commitment to protecting its regulated gaming market and ensuring that illegal gambling activities are swiftly addressed.

Over the past four months, the MGCB’s investigators have confirmed that these operators, including notable platforms like Americas Card Room, CandyLand Casino, and BetOnline.ag, were accepting wagers and offering casino-style games to Michigan residents without the necessary state licenses. These illegal operators are operating outside the legal framework set by Michigan’s gambling laws, exposing players to significant risks such as rigged games, unpaid winnings, and the potential misuse of personal and financial data.

Broadening Enforcement of Gambling Regulations

The cease-and-desist orders aim to close down illicit gambling sites and prevent further harm to Michigan residents. As MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams pointed out, “The scale of this action sends a clear message: Michigan will not tolerate illegal operators targeting our residents or undermining the lawful businesses that have invested in complying with state law.” He emphasized that the board’s investigations will continue, with ongoing efforts to identify, document, and shut down unlicensed gambling platforms in the state.

While many of the 45 entities in question are based offshore, such as those in Curacao and Belize, their operations have directly impacted Michigan consumers. The MGCB has stated that all operators offering online casino gaming or sports betting to Michigan residents must be licensed by the board, as required by the Lawful Internet Gaming Act and Lawful Sports Betting Act. Operators who fail to comply with cease-and-desist directives face potential civil and criminal enforcement actions.

This latest round of cease-and-desist orders continues a sustained crackdown on illegal gambling that the MGCB has been pursuing for several years. In the past, the board has taken action against operators in various months, with the largest wave of shutdowns occurring in 2025 when more than 40 unlicensed platforms were targeted. The latest round adds to the MGCB’s list of actions that have already seen substantial penalties and closures.

By contrast, licensed Michigan gambling operators undergo thorough background checks, audits, and regulatory oversight, ensuring that consumers are protected and that their data is securely handled. The MGCB also requires these operators to adhere to responsible gaming standards and dispute resolution processes that illegal operators simply do not provide.

Enforcement Challenges and the Path Forward

The MGCB’s continued efforts are not without challenges. While the board has successfully closed many illegal sites, there remains a growing issue of offshore operators targeting Michigan residents. With little recourse for players who encounter issues with these platforms, the state’s enforcement efforts are essential in preventing further harm.

As the MGCB steps up its investigations, it urges Michigan residents to verify that any online gaming or sports betting platform they use is licensed by the state. The board has also encouraged the public to report suspected illegal gambling activity through their website or by contacting the Michigan Gambling Tip Line.