The Michigan Gaming Control Board Cracks Down on 15 Illegal Operators

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to 15 illegal online gambling operators targeting Michigan residents without proper authorization. This enforcement move highlights the MGCB’s ongoing efforts to safeguard consumers, promote fair gaming practices, and protect personal and financial data from unregulated gambling platforms.

The operators ordered to cease operations in Michigan include:
7 Bit Casino, Avia Games Inc., Grande Vegas Casino, High Country Casino, i Net Bet, Liberty Slots Casino, Lincoln Casino, Lucky Hippo Casino, Miami Club Casino, PrimaPlay Casino, Slot Madness, Slots Plus Casino, Sun Palace Casino, Vegas Casino Online, and Vegas2Web Casino.

“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,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “Our message is simple: If you want to offer gambling in Michigan, follow the law or we will stop you. We will continue to work aggressively to keep illegal gambling out of our state.”

What the Orders Mean

Under Michigan law, internet gaming and sports betting are only legal through operators licensed by the MGCB. The 15 entities named in these cease-and-desist letters were found offering casino-style games or interactive wagering without a valid license, in direct violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.

Unlike state-authorized operators, these illegal sites are not subject to independent testing, regulatory oversight, or consumer protection standards. Each has been directed to halt all operations targeting Michigan immediately. Noncompliance could lead to additional legal action, including collaboration with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.

"Play It Smart, Michigan" Campaign

The MGCB continues to educate residents through its “Play It Smart, Michigan” campaign, which aims to raise awareness about illegal gambling and how to spot unlicensed operators. A newly launched “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” page on the MGCB website explains the differences between regulated and unregulated platforms, offers identification tips, and provides a list of all legally licensed online gaming and sports betting operators in the state.

“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 warned. “Through our Play It Smart, Michigan campaign, we’re giving Michiganders the tools they need to tell the difference between safe, legal play and dangerous, illegal operations.”

The agency also provides educational videos and resources across its social media platforms, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, to help players spot fake gambling advertisements.