Michigan Cracks Down on 15 Illegal Gambling Sites Amid Revenue Surge
MGCB orders 15 “illegal gambling operators to stop operations, as state’s gaming revenues continue to grow.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has intensified its efforts against illegal gambling operations in the state. In a press release dated August 14th, the MGCB announced the issuance of cease-and-desist letters to 15 unlicensed online gambling platforms targeting local players without authorization.
The ongoing enforcement reflects the agency’s commitment to protect players, promote fair play, and ensure that players’ funds and personal information are protected. The list of 15 operators includes 7 Bit Casino, Grande Vegas, Lucky Hippo Casino, and Miami Club Casino.
What the MGCB Order Means for Operators and the Broader Sweepstakes Casino Industry
According to Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director, “These unlawful operators try to present themselves as legitimate entertainment options”, and added that they don’t feature player protections, and they operate without accountability. He added that the agency remains committed to a safer gambling environment for local players, and challenged sweepstakes casino operators to “follow the law”.
Unlike licensed operators, these illegal sites often lack the necessary safeguards to protect consumers, including fair play tools and secure payment options. The operators ordered to close shop in the state are: 7 Bit Casino, Avia Games Inc., i Net Bet, Liberty Slots Casino, Grande Vegas Casino, High Country Casino, Miami Club Casino, Lincoln Casino, Lucky Hippo Casino, PrimaPlay Casino, Slots Plus Casino, Slot Madness, Sun Palace Casino, Vegas Casino Online, and Vegas2Web Casino.
Crackdown Continues Despite Michigan’s Growing Revenues
In June 2025, internet gaming and sports betting operators reported $285.2 million in combined gross receipts, the second-highest monthly total ever recorded in the state. For September 2025, the state’s revenues continue to grow, thanks to impressive performances from Detroit’s three casinos: the MGM Grand Detroit, Hollywood Casino at Greektown, and MotorCity Casino. According to MGCB, the three casinos combined to earn $98.9 million.
Despite the revenue surge in the market, MGCB and the state law enforcement agencies remain laser-focused on enforcing regulations. The MGCB sounds the alarm: operators must play by the rules to offer gambling in Michigan. Director Williams has already issued the warning: “We will continue to work aggressively to keep illegal gambling out of our state.”
‘Play It Smart, Michigan’ Campaign
Aside from its aggressive enforcement, MGCB also actively promotes its responsible gambling initiative. The agency has launched the Play It Smart, Michigan Campaign, as part of its efforts to raise awareness among Michigan residents on the risks of playing with unregulated online gambling operators.
The program features a new “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” webpage that lists all licensed operators and how users can check if the platform is legitimate or not. It also encourages bettors to make smart choices and immediately report suspicious activities.
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