The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has ordered six offshore online casinos to stop operating in the state. The list includes Fortune Horizon Casino, Goat Spins Casino, High Roller Casino, Slots.lv, True Fortune Casino, and Vegas Gems Casino.
The latest cease-and-desist order follows the MGCB’s action against eight other offshore online casinos, including Bspin, Everygame, Everygame Sports, Kudos, PlayCroco, Slots of Vegas, Spin Dimension, and Super Slots.
Licensed online casinos are available in Michigan, featuring BetMGM, Caesars, BetRivers, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Golden Nugget. This is why the MGCB is making it a priority to force offshore platforms out of the state. There are safer platforms already available within the state, so there’s no reason for players to try offshore sites.
The MGCB emphasized the risks that come with playing offshore in a recent public statement:
“These sites try to attract players with flashy ads and promises of big wins, but the reality is far riskier: no oversight, no consumer protections, and no guarantee you’ll ever see your money again,” said Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director.
Operators that fail to comply with this cease-and-desist order could be subject to further legal action from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Through its “Play It Smart, Michigan” initiative, the MGCB is working to educate players about how to recognize safe, legal gambling options and avoid offshore, unregulated websites. A central resource is the agency’s “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” webpage, which includes:
For players in Michigan, the MGCB’s latest action reinforces the importance of choosing licensed platforms over offshore alternatives. By removing illegal operators from the market, regulators aim to ensure that residents have access only to sites that meet state standards for security, fairness, and responsible gaming.
Licensed casinos like BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel provide safeguards such as independent testing of games, deposit limits, and clear dispute resolution channels. Offshore sites, by contrast, offer no guarantee that winnings will be paid out or that personal and financial data will be protected.
The crackdown also gives players a clearer path to safe entertainment. With resources like the MGCB’s “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” webpage, users can easily verify whether a site is authorized before signing up. In practice, this means more confidence for players who want to enjoy online gaming without worrying about scams or hidden risks.
The MGCB’s increased scrutiny on unlicensed operators sends a strong message to the online casino industry: states are increasingly willing to enforce their laws and protect regulated markets.
For legal operators like BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel, this enforcement provides a competitive advantage by removing offshore rivals that don’t bear the same licensing costs, tax obligations, or compliance requirements.
At the same time, it raises the stakes for companies operating in legal gray areas. Offshore platforms targeting U.S. players without state approval face greater risks of legal action. This applies to sweepstakes casinos as well, with the MGCB ordering six platforms to cease operations earlier this year.
