Michigan Issues Massive Crackdown on 19 Illegal Online Casinos

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) just delivered a serious warning shot to offshore operators. The state’s most aggressive enforcement action yet saw 19 unlicensed online casino and sportsbook sites hit with cease-and-desist letters last week.

The sites have 14 days to exit the Michigan market or face legal action, according to the MGCB.

“Illegal gambling operators threaten the safety of our citizens and the integrity of our gaming industry,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “When companies offer games without proper licensing, Michigan players are left without the critical protections they deserve.”

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Full List of Sites Targeted by the MGCB

These 19 platforms were flagged for violating multiple Michigan laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Lawful Sports Betting Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code. Some of the better-known names include:

• Ignition Casino
• BitBet
• Cafe Casino
• Jackbit
• Red Stag Casino
• Paradise8
• Cyber Bingo
• Eternal Slots
• Desert Nights Casino
• Bingo Village

The MGCB made it clear: operating without a license in Michigan isn’t just illegal — it’s unsafe for players.

“These platforms operate in the shadows,” Williams said. “They’re not just skirting the rules — they’re exposing players to serious harm.”

If you’re in Michigan and want to play safely, here are fully licensed online casinos where you can legally enjoy real-money games:

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Five More Sites Under Investigation

In addition to the 19 cease-and-desist letters, the MGCB announced that five other sites are under active investigation for offering gambling-like products without proper authorization:

• BoVegas Casino
• BUSR
• Cherry Gold Casino
• Lucky Legends
• Wager Attack Casino

This latest sweep reinforces Michigan’s role as one of the most aggressive states in the U.S. when it comes to cracking down on the unregulated online gambling market.

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Offshore Casinos vs. Legal Online Casinos

If you’re gambling online in Michigan, it’s crucial to know the difference between legal online casinos and shady offshore platforms. The licensed options in the state go through a rigorous regulatory process, ensuring fairness, secure payments, and access to support.

The casinos targeted by the MGCB, by contrast, offer none of those protections. If a site isn’t licensed in Michigan, you’re gambling with your money — and your safety.

Want to stick with legal, vetted options? Explore our full list of online casinos with verified bonuses and no-deposit offers to see what’s available where you live.

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Popular Slot Games Used by Offshore Sites

Some offshore sites attempt to attract players using versions of popular slot games like 88 Fortunes — but without licensing, there’s no guarantee the gameplay or payouts are fair.

Want to play games like that safely? Legal casinos in the U.S. offer these titles with regulated RNGs and oversight.

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Michigan Isn’t Backing Down

This isn’t Michigan’s first move. Over the past year, the MGCB has sent over 40 cease-and-desist orders, including high-profile cases involving sites like Bovada, MyBookie, and BetOnline.

Executive Director Williams also joined a coalition of state regulators last year to push the federal government for help in shutting down the illegal gambling market nationwide.

As more legal options roll out in Michigan and beyond, the pressure is mounting on operators who are still trying to fly under the radar.

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For a full look at your safest options, start with our guide to legal online casinos, updated regularly with current bonus codes and player protections.