In a firm move to safeguard its residents, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has cracked down on 13 unlicensed gambling websites operating outside U.S. jurisdiction but illegally targeting users in the state. These sites, including well-known names like Captain Jack Casino, Red Dog Casino, and Slots of Vegas, were found to be offering online gambling services in violation of Michigan’s regulatory framework.

The action was announced this week, with cease-and-desist orders delivered to each of the operators, many of whom are headquartered in regions such as Curaçao, Costa Rica, and the Autonomous Island of Anjouan. These platforms lacked the necessary approval from Michigan authorities and were engaging in business practices that endangered users’ financial and personal security.

“These illegal gambling websites put Michigan residents at significant personal and financial risk,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB. “Our priority is to maintain a secure and regulated gaming environment. These websites not only violate Michigan’s laws but also engage in deceptive practices that endanger consumers, including withholding winnings and imposing unfair wagering requirements.”

Consumer Risk and Regulatory Violations

The MGCB’s enforcement comes amid growing concern over unregulated gambling sites that exploit users through unfair practices. These offshore websites allowed state residents to participate in gambling activities using common payment options such as credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies. However, many of the platforms were reported to withhold player winnings and enforce excessive wagering requirements, making it difficult for users to retrieve their funds.

Beyond financial exploitation, these sites also failed to meet Michigan’s strict standards for data security, responsible gaming, and consumer protection. Without regulatory oversight, users are left exposed to potential threats such as identity theft and online fraud.

“These relentless actions are part of our ongoing effort to provide a transparent and trustworthy gaming environment for all Michigan residents,” Williams added. “We will continue to take necessary steps to protect players and maintain the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry.”

Cease-and-Desist Notices and Legal Consequences

Each of the 13 websites—among them Casino Brango, Jazz Sports Casino Racebook, Planet 7 Casino, and Silver Oak Casino—has been given a 14-day window to terminate all illegal operations in the state. If they fail to comply within that time, the MGCB will escalate matters by coordinating with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to pursue further legal recourse.

The targeted websites operated without state licenses, in direct conflict with Michigan laws governing interactive gaming. The MGCB emphasized that these actions reflect an ongoing initiative to remove unlawful operators from the market and ensure that only vetted, compliant entities can offer gambling services to Michigan residents.

Promoting Safe and Legal Gambling in Michigan

In light of the enforcement action, the MGCB reiterated its commitment to maintaining a transparent and secure gambling environment. The board urged players to verify whether an operator is licensed before engaging in any online gambling activity. A comprehensive list of authorized operators is available on the MGCB’s official website.

Earlier this year, the MGCB had also taken similar action against eleven other offshore operators and has been actively working to remove unregulated gambling machines from establishments across Michigan. This latest move further underscores the board’s ongoing efforts to clean up the gaming environment and hold violators accountable.