The Michigan Gaming Control Board has sent cease and desist letters to a total of five illegal online gambling platforms that are targeting residents in Michigan. These operators include Cherry Gold Casino, BoVegas Casino, BUSR, Wager Attack Casino, and Lucky Legends. According to the MGCB, these sites accept wagers and deposits from players in Michigan for slots, sports events, blackjack, and a host of other casino games without the safeguards and oversights required under Michigan law.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board has taken decisive action against five online gambling operators accused of illegally targeting Michigan residents. On Friday, the MGCB issued cease-and-desist orders to BoVegas Casino, Cherry Gold Casino, BUSR, Wager Attack Casino, and Lucky Legends, citing multiple violations of state law, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Penal Code, and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act.

"These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan's regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk," said the Executive Director of the MGCB, Henry Williams. "We will not tolerate unlicensed gambling operations that exploit Michigan residents. Our top priority is to protect the public by enforcing the law and shutting down these illegal platforms."

Illegal operators in the crosshairs

The five gambling platforms targeted by the MGCB offered a range of casino and sportsbook-style betting options without any licensing or oversight from state regulators. Each platform was found to be actively accepting wagers from Michigan players in violation of established legal frameworks.

  • BoVegas Casino - Operates with no regard for Michigan's licensing requirements, offering digital slots and table games that expose players to potential fraud and rigged systems.
  • Cherry Gold Casino - Promotes a broad gaming selection but functions without Michigan oversight, leaving users vulnerable.
  • BUSR - Promotes itself as a reputable sportsbook and casino while skirting consumer protection rules required under state law.
  • Wager Attack Casino - Offers combined sportsbook and casino options without a license, which exposes players to unregulated operations.
  • Lucky Legends - Advertises high-end bonuses and a VIP experience but bypasses regulatory controls essential to fair play.

Consumer risks and regulatory concerns

According to investigations done by the MGCB, these websites accepted real-money bets on everything from sports events to blackjack, slots, and other casino-style games. With no regulatory body ensuring compliance or fairness, players were left with no safeguards, no guaranteed payouts, and no reliable channels for resolving disputes.

This kind of illegal activity strips players of basic protections, said Williams. Many users don't realize they're gambling on platforms that operate outside the law and can disappear without warning - taking deposits and winnings with them, he continued.

Michigan's legal gambling market includes licensed operators who meet stringent requirements to ensure game fairness, data protection, and responsible gambling support. Illegal sites, by contrast, often operate offshore and can evade accountability.

State enforces strict compliance

The cease-and-desist orders serve as an official demand for these operators to stop offering their services to Michigan residents immediately. They now have 14 days to conform or face legal consequences, including potential lawsuits coordinated with the Michigan Department of the Attorney General. This enforcement action sends a clear message: If you're targeting Michigan residents without proper authorization, you will be shut down, stated Williams. He emphasized that the MGCB remains committed to monitoring the digital gambling landscape and taking action against any entities that flout Michigan's regulatory structure.

To help maintain the integrity of Michigan's regulated gambling environment, the MGCB urges the public to report any suspected illegal gambling activity. Residents can contact the agency by phone at 1-888-314-2682 or by email at MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov. With the crackdown in motion, the MGCB reiterated its dedication to ensuring that Michigan's gaming industry remains secure, transparent, and beneficial to players and the state alike.