A warning to all users has been issued by the Maine Gambling Control Unit against all illegal and unregulated gambling apps and websites, including the controversial sweepstakes casino platforms. As everyone fully knows, online gambling is still illegal in the state of Maine, and the warning comes right after the NY Attorney General sent 26 cease and desist letters to sweepstakes casinos.

Online gambling continues to evolve across the United States, but regulations vary drastically by state. In Maine, gambling regulators are taking a firm stance against certain online platforms. The Maine Gambling Control Unit has issued a public warning urging residents as well as visitors to avoid using illegal sweepstakes casinos and unlicensed gambling apps.

"These sites may appear legitimate, but none are licensed or regulated by the state," said Milton Champion, executive director of the GCU within the Department of Public Safety. "No online casino, iGaming, or sweepstakes site is authorized to operate in Maine."

The statement follows a growing national crackdown on sweepstakes-style gambling. Recently, New York's Attorney General sent cease and desist letters to 26 sweepstakes casinos, and Montana became the first state to officially ban sweepstakes gambling altogether.

What's legal in Maine?

Unlike many states with looser restrictions, Maine has drawn a clear legal boundary around online gambling. Currently, only three types of online betting are legal in the state:

  • Online sports betting
  • Fantasy sports contests
  • Advance deposit betting for horse racing

These activities are regulated under Maine law, with the GCU overseeing licensing and consumer protections to ensure fair play. Operators must adhere strictly to state regulations or risk legal action.

Unregulated sites on the rise

Despite these legal boundaries, the GCU has identified a troubling trend: unregulated websites and mobile apps that target Maine players. These platforms often masquerade as legitimate online casinos or sweepstakes games, but they operate outside of Maine's regulatory framework.

A common example is Miss Cherry Fruits, a sweepstakes casino game accessible online. Like many similar platforms, sweepstakes casinos offer games that simulate traditional casino play - slots, roulette, blackjack - and often provide real-money payouts, gift cards, or prizes. Yet, these platforms are not licensed to operate in Maine and are not held accountable by the GCU or any state authority.

Risks of using illegal gambling platforms

Using unlicensed platforms carries significant risks. Without state oversight, there is no assurance that the games are fair or that user funds are secure. Should a player experience issues - such as account disputes, withheld winnings, or technical malfunctions - they have no legal recourse.

The GCU emphasized that users participate in such activities entirely at their own risk. Consumers should be wary of platforms that are not explicitly licensed by Maine authorities.

Other states grapple with sweepstakes regulation

Maine isn't alone in confronting the complexities of sweepstakes casinos. States across the country are responding to the growing popularity - and associated risks - of these platforms. Louisiana, for example, is close to enacting a full ban. Senate Bill 181, aimed at eliminating sweepstakes gambling in the state, has already passed the Senate and is progressing through the House.

Pennsylvania and New Jersey, which allow licensed online casinos, are also considering tighter rules to control unregulated sweepstakes platforms. As it stands, only seven US states have legalized real-money online casinos: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. This fragmented legal landscape makes it difficult for consumers to know what's legal, especially when traveling or accessing platforms that operate across state lines.

Support for Responsible Gambling

As part of its public awareness effort, the GCU is also highlighting the importance of responsible gambling. For those struggling with gambling addiction or concerns, the agency encourages seeking help through state and national resources. Assistance is available through the National Problem Gambling Helpline, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, and the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Ultimately, Maine's gambling regulators stress the importance of caution when navigating online gaming platforms. Players are urged to verify the legitimacy of any site before engaging and to avoid platforms not licensed by the state.