US Regulator Acts Against Six Unlicensed Online Casinos

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is sounding the alarm and once again taking energetic action against unlicensed online gambling providers. Recently, six more casinos received letters from the authority: Fortune Horizon Casino, Goat Spins Casino, High Roller Casino, Slots.lv, True Fortune Casino, and Vegas Gems Casino. All are accused of operating illegally in the state of Michigan. These actions are not isolated incidents but signal an ongoing, rigorous fight against illegal online gambling.

Unauthorized operators risk further legal action if they fail to comply with the orders. The MGCB is working closely with the Michigan Attorney General's Office on this. The goal is to protect players and maintain the integrity of the regulated market.

Numbers and facts

Since September 2025, the MGCB has intensified its efforts, taking action against illegal operators in several waves. In September 2025, the six aforementioned casinos were warned. In December 2025, twelve more operators followed, including names like 31 Bets Casino and Betnuvo. The most recent and extensive action in April 2026 targeted as many as 45 offshore operators illegally targeting Michigan players. These included buffalocasino.com and SportsBetting.ag, among others. In total, the MGCB has thus targeted over 60 illegal online gambling sites in less than a year.

Henry Williams, the Executive Director of the MGCB, makes it clear what risks players take with such providers:

“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.” - Henry Williams, MGCB Executive Director

He emphasizes that Michigan law is clear: anyone wishing to offer services here must hold a license. The MGCB will continue to hold illegal operators accountable and protect Michigan residents from predatory, unregulated gambling. Unlicensed casinos are not subject to independent testing, responsible gaming standards, or consumer safeguards.

The MGCB also imposed a hefty fine of $100,000 against Caesars Sportsbook on September 19. The reason was a technical error that allowed a player, Jeffrey Saco, to deposit $2.1 million without transferring funds from his personal bank accounts. Saco wagered over $88 million and withdrew almost $600,000 in April 2023 before ceasing his activities. This underscores the need for robust technical systems and strict oversight.

Background

The MGCB's approach is part of a broader strategy to regulate Michigan's gambling market and protect players. State laws, the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, and the Gaming Control and Revenue Act provide the legal basis for these measures. Michigan Senator Veronica Klinefelt proposed Senate Bill 511 on September 22, which would legalize social wagering contests. This shows that legislation is constantly responding to new forms of gambling and trying to fit them into a regulated framework.

Illegal offshore casinos pose a direct threat to players. They often do not offer fair games, there is a risk that winnings will not be paid out, personal data will be misused, and there is no recourse for disputes. In contrast, licensed operators are subject to strict scrutiny, must pass technical audits, and adhere to responsible gaming rules. This is a quality feature that gives players security.

Why it matters for German players

The situation in Michigan largely mirrors Germany's efforts to create a secure and regulated gambling market. In Germany, the Glücksspielstaatsvertrag 2021 (GlüStV 2021) has been in force since July 2021. This allows online casinos, sports betting providers, and online poker providers to obtain a German license. The Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) is responsible for issuing and monitoring these licenses. Similar to Michigan, where the MGCB maintains a “whitelist” of approved providers, the GGL also publishes such a list. Players in Germany should only look for casinos on this whitelist.

Only providers with a German GGL license guarantee player protection and fair conditions. This includes a stake limit of 1 Euro per spin on slot machines and a monthly deposit limit of 1,000 Euro, controlled by the central monitoring system LUGAS. There are also strict rules against unauthorized marketing and manipulated games. Unlicensed providers, often with MGA or Curacao licenses, do not offer these assurances. They are not subject to German law and offer players little legal recourse in disputes. Players should therefore always check whether an online casino holds a valid GGL license to protect themselves from fraud and unfair practices.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For German GGL-licensed casinos, the news from Michigan is an indirect confirmation of their business model. The MGCB's tough stance shows that regulatory authorities worldwide are determined to curb illegal gambling. This creates a safer environment for licensed providers and strengthens players' trust in legal offers. The fight against unlicensed providers reduces competition from unserious actors who do not have to adhere to rules and could therefore gain unfair advantages. This ultimately benefits GGL casinos that comply with strict German regulations.

At the same time, it also means that the GGL itself must remain vigilant to protect the German market from illegal providers. The experiences from Michigan, with over 60 warnings in a short period, could serve as a model for strengthening enforcement measures in Germany. Only in this way can the GlüStV 2021 fully achieve its effect and comprehensive player protection be guaranteed.