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The Michigan Gaming Control Board issued 45 cease-and-desist letters to unregulated gambling operators over the last four months, marking the largest enforcement sweep the regulator has carried out in that span.
MGCB Public Information Officer Lisa Keith confirmed the milestone to PlayMichigan.
Michigan regulators have been among the most effective in steering customers toward legal Michigan online casinos and Michigan sportsbooks.
Keith reiterated to PlayMichigan that these measures are still effective, even as more of these “bad actors” continue to surface.
Michigan continues to fight illegal gambling
The MGCB has issued cease-and-desist orders to more than 200 operators over the years. The pace of new operators surfacing has accelerated, Keith said.
Keith also noted the sophistication of these operators, who are increasingly targeting regulated states such as Michigan.
“The demand for legal, regulated gaming in our state is high, and unfortunately, that attracts bad actors looking to operate in the shadows without any of the consumer protections our licensed operators are required to provide.”
Despite the continued presence of illegal operators, the MGCB’s enforcement methods are working. A recent study revealed that Michigan leads all fully regulated states, with roughly 75% of consumer activity flowing through legal operators.
Keith said they’re winning a tough battle.
“The volume of orders we continue to issue is not a sign that the tool isn’t working; it’s a sign that we are not standing still. The illegal offshore market is persistent, and so are we.”
MGCB prepares for escalation
Keith admitted that cease-and-desist orders can be hit or miss in terms of compliance.
“Some operators do cease their activity targeting Michigan residents once they receive an order. Others do not.”
However, the MGCB is fully prepared for those operators who do not cooperate, Keith said.
“For those who fail to comply, the MGCB does not simply move on – we pursue additional enforcement measures and, where appropriate, refer matters to the Michigan Attorney General.
“The MGCB remains committed to relentless enforcement. Operators who ignore cease-and-desist directives should expect escalating consequences.”
Protecting Michigan players
The core approach for Michigan in attacking illegal gambling is protecting players within the state. Individuals face risks such as manipulated games, withheld winnings, misuse of personal and financial data, and no meaningful avenue for dispute resolution.
These operators are not subject to the same consumer protection standards that regulated platforms must follow.
MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a statement:
“The scope of this action sends a clear message: Michigan will not tolerate illegal operators targeting our residents or undermining the lawful businesses that have invested in complying with state law.
“Our investigators work with unwavering focus to identify, document, and act against every unlicensed site that puts Michigan players at risk. This is an ongoing effort, and we will continue to take action against illegal gambling operators.”
The MGCB will remain aggressive against unlicensed and illegal gambling operators targeting Michigan.
