Michigan Regulators Order Four Offshore Online Casinos to Cease Operations
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken direct enforcement action against four unlicensed online casinos, issuing cease-and-desist letters that demand they immediately stop offering their games to state residents. The four targeted sites: Betty Wins, Orbit Spins, Pacific Spins Casino, and Yabby Casino, are all operated by Tech Zone, Inc., a company registered in the offshore jurisdiction of the Union of Comoros.
A Proactive Stance on Consumer Protection
The MGCB’s action is part of a broader strategy to protect Michigan residents from the dangers of the unregulated gambling market. According to the agency, these illegal platforms operate without any state oversight, leaving players vulnerable.
“These offshore operators lure players with flashy ads and promises of big winnings, but in reality, they put consumers at serious financial and personal risk,” said Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director. “We will continue to take strong action against unlicensed sites to ensure gambling in Michigan is legal, fair, and secure.”
The MGCB determined that the four brands operated by Tech Zone were illegally targeting Michigan residents in violation of multiple state laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act.
The Risks of Unregulated Platforms
A key part of the MGCB’s message is to educate the public about the specific dangers of using unlicensed sites. Unlike the state’s regulated operators, these offshore platforms are not required to adhere to any consumer protection standards.
The risks highlighted by the agency include:
- A lack of fair play assurances, as the games are not independently tested or certified.
- No consumer recourse in the event of a dispute over winnings or account issues.
- A significant risk of fraud, identity theft, and the loss of deposited funds.
The cease-and-desist letters order the operators to immediately block access for Michigan residents. The MGCB has warned that failure to comply could lead to further enforcement action in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
A Broader Education Campaign
The enforcement action is complemented by a public education campaign called “Play It Smart, Michigan.” This initiative is designed to help residents distinguish between legal, regulated sites and their illegal counterparts.
The MGCB has created a “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” webpage that provides tips on how to spot an unlicensed site. The agency also maintains a public list of all authorized online gaming and sports betting operators on its official website.
“Illegal operators may use familiar branding or social media ads to appear trustworthy,” Williams said. “But if the site isn’t licensed by the MGCB, it isn’t safe. We encourage all players to check before they bet.”
The MGCB is also encouraging the public to report any suspected illegal gambling activity through a dedicated phone number and email address, reinforcing its role as the primary watchdog for the state’s legal and regulated gaming market.
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