The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to five online gambling sites found to be operating illegally in the state. The named sites — BoVegas Casino, BUSR, Cherry Gold Casino, Lucky Legends, and Wager Attack Casino — were allegedly accepting wagers from Michigan residents without proper licensure, in violation of multiple state laws.
“These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. The orders give each operator 14 days to cease all activity or face further legal action in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Unregulated Sites Pose Consumer Risks
Unlike state-regulated platforms, offshore or unlicensed operators are not subject to Michigan’s consumer protection standards. The MGCB found that these sites were offering casino games and sports betting without the required oversight, leaving players vulnerable to unreliable payouts, unfair practices, and limited — if any — legal recourse.
Michigan’s regulated gaming market is designed to ensure player protections, including responsible gambling tools, data security, and a clear process for resolving disputes. The five targeted sites offer none of these assurances.
These Are Not Sweepstakes Casinos
It’s important to note: None of the five targeted operators are sweepstakes casinos. They are traditional-style online casinos and sportsbooks operating without licenses — offering real-money gambling directly, without any compliance with state oversight.
By contrast, sweepstakes casinos use a different legal framework. These platforms typically let users play games for a chance to win cash prizes using virtual currencies (like Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins), and often operate under sweepstakes contest laws rather than gambling laws. While some states have started to question or restrict this model, sweepstakes casinos are not the focus of Michigan’s latest enforcement action.
Lucky Legends: A Case Study in Red Flags
Lucky Legends Casino, one of the five named in the order, has drawn player complaints that mirror broader concerns about unregulated gambling.
Despite presenting itself as a premium “VIP” experience, the site has over 200 1-star reviews on Trustpilot — most of which cite canceled withdrawals, ever-changing verification requirements, and misleading bonus offers.
The casino has claimed its Trustpilot profile, but has not responded publicly to the overwhelming criticism.
Bottom Line: Know Who You’re Dealing With
Michigan’s action is a reminder that not every flashy gambling site is legitimate. The five operators in question were directly violating state laws by offering real-money gambling to Michigan players without a license.
If you’re gambling online in Michigan, stick with MGCB-approved operators. And if you’re exploring sweepstakes casinos, make sure the platform is clear about how it works — and that it has a track record of treating players fairly.
The five sites that received cease-and-desist orders in Michigan have been asked to halt operations immediately. They have 14 days to comply or will face further legal action from the MGCB and Michigan Department of Attorney General.
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