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Michigan Regulators Orders Six Illegal Online Casinos to Shut Down

Michigan regulators order six illegal online casinos to leave the state, warning players to stick to safe, licensed platforms.
mgcb orders six more unlicensed operators to cease operations
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Corey Sharp Avatar
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The Michigan Gaming Control Board has ordered six more unlicensed online gambling operators to exit the state, continuing its crackdown on illegal online casinos that do not comply with Michigan law.

The board issued cease-and-desist letters to each operator after determining they were offering online gambling in violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code. None of the sites hold state licenses.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a statement:

“Illegal operators often masquerade as legitimate gaming platforms, but they exist entirely outside the legal safeguards that protect consumers.

“We will continue to take action to ensure Michiganders are playing on safe, regulated sites.”

Why it matters

Michigan legalized online casinos and sports betting in 2019, with licensed platforms launching in January 2021. Since then, the market has grown into one of the largest in the country, generating hundreds of millions in tax revenue for the state.

Unlicensed operators, however, continue to target Michigan players. Unlike regulated platforms, these sites are not subject to independent testing, consumer protections, or responsible gaming requirements. That leaves players exposed to unfair games, loss of funds with no recourse, and a lack of safeguards for problem gambling.

The sites the MGCB banned are as follows:

  • Fortune Horizon Casino
  • Goat Spins Casino
  • High Roller Casino
  • Slots.lv
  • True Fortune Casino
  • Vegas Gems Casino

The MGCB said its enforcement efforts aim to protect both players and the integrity of the legal market. The agency has stepped up its actions in recent months, issuing similar orders against multiple illegal operators earlier this year.

Next steps

The six operators named in the latest orders must immediately stop offering gambling services to Michigan residents. If they fail to comply, they could face further legal action, including referral to the Michigan Attorney General’s office.

The MGCB also urged residents to avoid illegal online casinos and instead play only on platforms approved to operate in the state. The full list of authorized operators is available on the agency’s website.

Consumers who encounter suspicious gambling sites are encouraged to report them to the MGCB by calling 1-888-314-2682 or emailing mgcb-enforcement@michigan.gov.

Bottom line

Michigan regulators are sending a clear signal to the industry: online gambling in the state must operate within the law. For players, the safest choice remains sticking to licensed platforms that offer protections, fair play, and state oversight.

The MGCB has been extremely aggressive in chasing away unlicensed operators. Last week, the Board issued eight cease-and-desist letters.

Earlier in September, the MGCB ordered four more operators to halt operations.

About the Author
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Corey Sharp

Lead Writer

Corey Sharp joined Catena Media in 2022 and is the go-to expert for Michigan gambling. Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, he previously worked for the Philadelphia Inquirer and NBC Sports Philadelphia as a sports journalist and content producer. In Corey’s role as Lead Writer for PlayMichigan, he works alongside a talented team of expert journalists and analysts to bring you the most comprehensive and accurate coverage of gambling news in Michigan. Corey’s contacts around the industry makes him a trusted source. Corey produces daily stories and features about the gambling space. Corey graduated from Holy Family University in Philadelphia with a bachelor’s degree in sports management.

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