The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to four more unlicensed offshore online casinos. Betty Wins, Orbit Spins, Pacific Spins Casino, and Yabby Casino have all been ordered to cease operations in the Great Lake State. All four brands are operated by Tech Zone Inc., a company registered offshore in the Union of Comoros.
This is not the first incident of the MGCB using enforcement measures to protect Michigan residents from illegal gambling platforms that lack the player safeguards and responsible gaming protections licensed operators are required to have. Six others were notified during July, and even more in August, when the gaming board sent letters to 15 illegal operators during its ongoing crackdown on illegal operators.
“These offshore operators lure players with flashy ads and promises of big winnings, but in reality, they put consumers at serious financial and personal risk,” Henry Williams, MGCB executive director said. “We will continue to take strong action against unlicensed sites to ensure gambling in Michigan is legal, fair, and secure.”
In the last three months alone, the MGCB has notified 25 betting sites to stop their illegal operations. Any online casino or sportsbook seeking to legally conduct business in Michigan must follow the rules and regulations of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Michigan Gaming and Control Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.
Betty Wins, Orbit Spins, Pacific Spins Casino, and Yabby Casino are the latest brands in violation of these policies. Each of them must immediately cease offering games to Michigan residents. Any that fail to comply could result in additional enforcement measures in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
The MGCB continues doing its part to help Michigan gamblers differentiate between legal and illegal gaming options through its “Play It Smart, Michigan” campaign. All licensed online casino and sports betting operators are listed on its website.
Those using illegal sites could be exposed to identity theft, fraud, and loss of funds. Additionally, offshore operators provide no recourse for consumers in disputes. Legal online casinos, on the other hand, offer numerous options for settling any issues, including a live chat.
Michigan is one of several legal gaming states enforcing the fight against illegal offshore operators. Last week, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board issued its yearly warning about using illegal offshore sports betting sites.
Progress is being made in the fight against offshore operators. A recent GeoComply study shows state enforcement is driving players to legal betting. New account signups being 39% higher in enforcement states during August is one example.
Michigan will continue doing its part to keep the trend going in a positive direction and keep gamblers safe.
“Illegal operators may use familiar branding or social media to appear trustworthy,” Williams said. “But if a site isn’t licensed by the MGCB, it isn’t safe. We encourage all players to check before they bet.”
