Michigan cracks down on offshore casinos exploiting local players

The action underscores Michigan’s aggressive stance against unauthorized operators looking to capitalize on the U.S.'s skyrocketing iGaming revenue.

Michigan draws the line amid iGaming boom

With online gambling continuing to generate record-breaking revenue across the U.S., states like Michigan have become prime targets for unlicensed operators. But rather than letting rogue sites exploit the demand, Michigan is doubling down on enforcement.

The MGCB issued cease-and-desist orders to the following five websites accused of illegally accepting wagers from Michigan residents: BoVegas Casino, BUSR, Cherry Gold Casino, Lucky Legends, and Wager Attack Casino.

 MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said about the orders;

These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk. We will not tolerate unlicensed gambling operations that exploit Michigan residents.

This latest crackdown builds on previous enforcement efforts, including actions against 6 unlicensed operators earlier this year.

Who are the offenders?

Each of the five named platforms is accused of violating multiple state laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code. 

Here’s a snapshot of the offenders:

Operator	Violation
BoVegas Casino	Offered online slots and table games without licensure, risking player fraud.
BUSR	Sportsbook and casino combo with no player protections or regulatory oversight.
Cherry Gold Casino	Promoted unlicensed slots and table games, exposing players to unfair practices.
Lucky Legends	Marketed VIP bonuses while bypassing Michigan’s fairness and transparency standards.
Wager Attack Casino	Provided both sports betting and casino services without a Michigan license.

Why unlicensed gambling is a public threat

According to MGCB investigators, these platforms accepted deposits and wagers on everything from blackjack to sports betting,  all without Michigan’s oversight. 

That means:

• Unreliable or denied payouts

• No dispute resolution process

• Increased exposure to fraud and unfair game algorithms

The MGCB warned;

Players using unlicensed platforms are gambling without a safety net. There’s no recourse if things go wrong.

Time to comply

Each of the five operators has 14 days to halt all Michigan-facing activity or face further legal action. 

The MGCB has confirmed it will work alongside the Michigan Department of Attorney General to ensure compliance.

This enforcement effort is just one part of Michigan’s broader initiative to clean up its digital gaming environment and protect consumers.

Setting the bar

As more states legalize and regulate iGaming, Michigan is setting the bar for player safety and market integrity.

Executive Director Williams reaffirmed the state’s position:

Our top priority is to protect the public by enforcing the law and shutting down these illegal platforms.