Michigan regulator cracks down on 13 illegal offshore gambling websites

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to 13 illegal offshore gambling websites that were found to be unlawfully targeting Michigan players. 

The websites are 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. None of these operators held valid licenses to offer gambling services in Michigan, said the regulator.

The operators behind the sites are reportedly based in jurisdictions such as Curaçao, Costa Rica, and the Autonomous Island of Anjouan.

According to the MGCB, the sites used payment methods like credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency to take bets, then used dishonest practices to block withdrawals and impose high wagering requirements. They also failed to meet state standards for consumer protection, data security, and responsible gaming.

Under the regulator's conditions, these entities have 14 days to stop all unlawful activity directed at Michigan residents or face further legal action in coordination with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.

“These illegal gambling websites put Michigan residents at significant personal and financial risk. Our priority is to maintain a secure and regulated gaming environment,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board. 

“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.”

The MGCB also urges residents to only use legal, state-approved gambling sites. A full list is available at Michigan.gov/MGCB.