Michigan regulator sends C&Ds to two major offshore betting sites
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to the Panama-based operators of SportsBetting.ag and BetOnline.ag for carrying out illegal gambling activities in Michigan. The two operators are violating Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and Michigan Penal Code.
According to the MGCB, the . SportsBetting.ag has been accepting illegal wagers on sports, horse races, politics, table games, card games, and virtual casino games. It has also been offering cash-back incentives for casino losses. Meanwhile, BetOnline.ag has been facilitating illegal betting options, including sports betting, live events, casino-style games (slots, table games, blackjack, poker), horse racing, esports, and various contest tournaments. These activities involve real-money wagers funded via credit card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. Following this, went to SportsBetting.ag and BetOnline.
Neither platform holds the necessary licences to operate in Michigan. MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said, “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 platforms have been given 14 days to cease all operations in Michigan. Failure to comply will lead to further legal action, in coordination with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
Previous actions against offshore sites
Last week, the MGCB sent cease-and-desist orders to 11 illegal online gambling operators offering services without proper state authorisation. The named casinos include Club Player Casino, 7 Bets Casino, NinBet Casino, Cherry Jackpot Casino, PitBet, SlotsNBets, Bookmaker.eu, Wild Vegas Casino, VIP Slots Casino, Prism Casino, and ABC Islands Casino.
“These sites are operating illegally and without proper oversight, putting Michigan players at risk. We’re committed to shutting down unlicensed gambling operations and protecting the public from deceptive practices, unfair play, and financial harm,” Williams said at the time.
The 11 operators were ordered to immediately stop offering gambling services to Michigan residents within 14 days or face further legal proceedings in collaboration with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
Williams further added, “This should serve as a strong warning to illegal operators: Michigan does not tolerate unauthorised gambling activity. We will continue our relentless pursuit of actively identifying and disrupting these operations.”
Earlier this month, the MGCB had also taken action against 13 offshore gambling websites, including Captain Jack Casino, Casino Brango, Ducky Luck Casino, El Royale Casino, Jazz Casino, Jazz Sports Casino Racebook, Looselines, Planet 7 Casino, Red Dog Casino, Royal Oak Casino, Silver Oak Casino, Skybook, and Slots of Vegas. These platforms were found to be operating without state licences and failed to meet Michigan’s standards for responsible gaming, consumer protection, or data security.
The MGCB urged Michigan residents to use only gambling websites that are authorised and licensed by the state. A list of approved operators is available on the official website at . Anyone who comes across illegal gambling activity or suspicious websites is also encouraged to report it by calling the MGCB hotline on 1-888-314-2682 or emailing [email protected].
