HomeMichigan Sports Betting NewsMichigan Orders Six Unlicensed Online Casinos to Halt Operations

Michigan Orders Six Unlicensed Online Casinos to Halt Operations

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The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has ordered six unlicensed online casinos to stop offering games to people in Michigan. The sites are Fortune Horizon Casino, Goat Spins Casino, High Roller Casino, Slots.lv, True Fortune Casino, and Vegas Gems Casino.

The regulator says these operators broke state laws and must immediately cease targeting Michigan players. MGCB leaders warn that unlicensed sites lack consumer protections and can put player money at risk.

Why the MGCB Took Action

Michigan allows online casino games and sports betting only through licensed Michigan online casinos that follow strict rules. According to the MGCB, the six sites named above violated the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and parts of the Michigan Penal Code. In short, they were taking bets from Michigan residents without the approvals the state requires.

Agency Executive Director Henry Williams said unlicensed sites often use flashy ads and familiar-sounding names to draw players in. But without oversight, there’s no guarantee of fair play, responsible gaming standards, or that players can withdraw their funds in a timely way.

If the operators ignore the orders, the board can work with the Michigan Department of Attorney General to pursue further legal action, including fines or lawsuits to stop the behavior.

This is not the first round of enforcement this year. Earlier in 2025, the MGCB sent similar letters to other unlicensed platforms. The board says it will keep pressing cases like these to protect the regulated market and Michigan consumers.

Licensed brands undergo independent testing, follow Michigan responsible gaming rules, and must keep player funds separate — protections that illegal sites do not have to meet.

For bettors, this action is a reminder to double-check a site before signing up. If a casino or sportsbook is not listed as authorized by the MGCB, it should not be accepting Michigan players. When in doubt, look for operator names you recognize from the state’s approved list, and confirm they partner with a local casino or tribal operator as required by law.

What Michigan Players Should Do Next

If you have an account with Fortune Horizon Casino, Goat Spins Casino, High Roller Casino, Slots.lv, True Fortune Casino, or Vegas Gems Casino, the safest step is to stop playing and consider withdrawing your funds. Keep records of deposits, withdrawals, and any unresolved customer service tickets.

If you run into trouble getting your money, document your attempts and consider filing a complaint with the MGCB or seeking advice from state consumer resources.

Before you wager again, verify that the platform is legal in Michigan. The MGCB maintains a “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming” page with a list of authorized internet gaming and sports betting operators.

That page also offers tips to spot red flags, like no clear licensing info, bonuses that seem too good to be true, or payment methods that are hard to trace. Remember: licensed operators must provide responsible gaming tools, clear terms and conditions, and channels for resolving disputes.

Parents and guardians should also talk with teens about the risks of unregulated gambling. Some offshore sites may not do proper age checks, and their ads can appear on social media.

Encourage young people to avoid sharing personal or banking details with any site that isn’t verified by the state. For anyone who feels their gambling is getting out of control, Michigan offers confidential help lines and support services tied to licensed operators and state programs.

Michigan’s regulated market continues to grow, but enforcement actions like this show that illegal operators are still trying to reach players. By sticking with licensed platforms and using the MGCB resources, bettors can enjoy games while staying within the law — and keep their money safer.

21+ and present in MI. Play responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 800-270-7117.