Michigan launches historic crackdown on 19 unlicensed casinos

The crackdown comes amid a surge in online gambling activity across the U.S., with regulators stepping up efforts to shield players from unsafe and unregulated platforms.

These platforms operate in the shadows… They’re exposing players to serious harm.

— Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director

What happened and who’s affected

The MGCB found that the platforms were operating without a Michigan license, in direct violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Lawful Sports Betting Act, and the Michigan Penal Code. Operators have 14 days to comply with the cease-and-desist orders or face further legal action from the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.

🎰 Operators ordered to halt activity:

• Bingo Village

• BITBET

• Café Casino

• Cocoa Casino

• Cyber Bingo

• Davinci's Gold

• Desert Nights Casino

• Diamond Reels Online Casino

• Eclipse Casino

• Eternal Slots

• EuroBets Casino

• Fair Go Casino

• GoldWin Casino

• Ignition Casino

• Jackbit

• Jackpot Capital

• Paradise8

• Red Stag Casino

• Two Up Casino

Protecting players from the dangers of shadow gambling sites

The primary goal of this move is to protect players from the dangers of unlicensed online casinos.

According to the MGCB, unlicensed operators fail to meet basic safety and transparency standards.

Quick risks rundown

• ❌ No guaranteed payout of winnings

• ❌ No legal recourse in cases of fraud or disputes

• ❌ No regulation to ensure fair games

• ❌ Risk of data leaks and financial abuse

Executive Director Henry Williams said about the unlicensed operators;

These companies don’t just ignore licensing laws. They actively endanger the public by operating without any accountability.

Not a one-off crackdown

The 19 sites named this month are only part of the story. The MGCB has been building momentum for months. Earlier this year, cease-and-desist orders were also sent to:

• BoVegas Casino

• Cherry Gold Casino

• Lucky Legends

• BUSR

• Wager Attack

Michigan’s campaign isn’t just legal, it’s educational. The regulator recently hosted an anti-human trafficking awareness training for casino staff, signaling a broader approach to player and community protection.

Michigan reinforces the message to the gambling industry

As online gambling expands across the U.S., so does the potential for abuse. 

Michigan’s sweeping enforcement action sets a new bar for how states can respond.

This is more than a legal move, it’s a declaration of intent. Protecting Michiganders is the top priority, and rogue operators are no longer welcome.