Michigan Cracks Down on Illegal Online Casinos

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to 13 offshore gambling websites accused of operating illegally within the state. This latest enforcement action, announced through two separate regulatory updates on April 2 and April 3, highlights growing concerns over unlicensed online platforms targeting Michigan residents.

 

Offshore Operators Targeted

In its first notice, the MGCB identified Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino—both operated by Curaçao-based Alistair Solutions NV—as violating multiple state laws. These platforms offered online slots, table games, and video poker to Michigan users without securing proper authorization under the state’s gaming framework.

The MGCB cited breaches of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code, noting that violations of the Gaming Control and Revenue Act alone could lead to penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a $100,000 fine. The operators have 14 days from the date of the letter to cease their activity or face further legal consequences.

In a subsequent release, the MGCB expanded its enforcement to 11 additional websites, including Shazam Casino, Highway Casino, SlotsRoom, Ruby Slots Casino, Las Atlantis Casino, Bet Big Dollar Casino, Blood Moon Casino, Spinfinity, Jumba Bet Casino, Grand Eagle Online Casino, and DogsFortune.

The regulator accused these platforms of not only operating without a license but also employing deceptive tactics such as withholding player winnings and enforcing excessive wagering requirements. Reports indicated that some players were required to re-wager deposits multiple times before being allowed to cash out—practices considered violations of Michigan law.

Like the earlier cases, these operators have been ordered to withdraw from the Michigan market within 14 days or risk further enforcement. Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB, emphasized the board’s commitment to protecting the public and ensuring compliance with state laws.

“We remain fully committed to ensuring a fair, safe and lawful gaming environment for all Michigan residents,” Williams stated.

 

“Shutting down these unlicensed platforms is critical not only to maintaining the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry. It also helps to protect Michigan residents from predatory practices and unreliable gambling experiences.”

Analysis and Broader Implications

Michigan’s gaming laws are among the most stringent in the U.S., requiring all online gambling entities to obtain a state-issued license and adhere to strict consumer protection protocols. The recent crackdown underscores the state’s zero-tolerance stance on unauthorized operators and its focus on curbing potentially exploitative behavior.

For licensed stakeholders, this enforcement reinforces regulatory fairness and preserves trust in Michigan’s burgeoning online gambling sector. For consumers, it highlights the importance of verifying the legal status of platforms before engaging in online gaming.

With the growing accessibility of offshore gambling platforms, Michigan’s efforts reflect a broader national challenge—how to police international operators in a rapidly expanding digital marketplace. The MGCB's actions may also set a precedent for other states grappling with similar jurisdictional and enforcement issues.