MyBookie.ag Receives Michigan Cease-and-Desist

Imagine your trusted offshore gambling site suddenly receiving a cease-and-desist from state authorities.

That’s what just happened in Michigan, as the MGCB cracks down on MyBookie.ag for illegal online gambling.

Picture outraged bettors and a firm, unwavering regulator intent on protecting fair, legal play.

Read on to learn how MyBookie’s future in Michigan hangs in the balance—and which state laws it violated.

MGCB Slaps MyBookie.ag with Cease-and-Desist Over Illegal Gambling

3 Key Points

1. MGCB calls out MyBookie.ag for operating without a valid Michigan gambling licence.
2. Henry Williams warns that ignoring the cease-and-desist triggers serious legal repercussions.
3. MyBookie can only offer withdrawals via Bitcoin or bank wire, intensifying regulator scrutiny.

Michigan Regulator Issues Cease-and-Desist to MyBookie.ag

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has ordered MyBookie.ag to halt operations in the Great Lakes State. Officials claim the offshore platform, run by Curaçao-based Duranbah Limited NV, is violating Michigan gambling laws. Now, the operator must comply within 14 days or face possible legal consequences.

A Swift Regulatory Response

Henry Williams, the MGCB’s executive director, stated: “Our investigation into MyBookie.ag found that it was accessible to Michigan citizens, violating state laws.” The board wants to preserve a fair gaming environment and aims to quash unlicensed platforms that lure local players. By issuing a formal cease-and-desist letter, the MGCB showcases its commitment to enforcing the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.

MyBookie.ag apparently accepted many deposit methods, such as credit cards, MoneyGram, and an array of cryptocurrencies. However, withdrawal options revolve around Bitcoin or bank wire transfer alone. From the regulator’s perspective, that arrangement gave MyBookie an unregulated advantage. It operated illegally while offering easy ways to gamble—but complicated ways to cash out.

Upholding Strict State Laws

Michigan has become known for clamping down on offshore and unlicensed operators. The MGCB’s swift approach ensures that online gambling remains regulated and accountable. Without a valid license, MyBookie’s operation is automatically outlawed. The fact it allegedly targeted or served Michigan bettors makes it a prime enforcement target.

This is not the first time Michigan has tackled offshore operators. In May 2024, the MGCB took action against Bovada, another prominent Curaçao-based site. Bovada responded by restricting all Michigan-based traffic. That move reinforced the MGCB’s credibility, showing it can effectively pressure big names in the unlicensed domain.

A Broader Movement Against Illegal Gambling

The current MyBookie situation aligns with a broader nationwide clampdown on unregulated betting. States increasingly protect their emerging legal iGaming industries. Unauthorized operations pull revenue from legitimate, licensed operators who comply with local consumer protections and responsible gambling standards.

Similar sentiments come from other states, too. For instance, Arizona made headlines by forcing major offshore sites to block local players. Director Jackie Johnson of the Arizona Department of Gaming explained they do not want unlicensed operators taking root in the state. These local crackdowns gradually narrow the window for illegal websites to thrive.

MyBookie stands out for wide acceptance of deposit channels, from mainstream cards to MoneyGram to crypto. For the MGCB, that variety might have signaled a well-organized enterprise catering specifically to local bettors. But relying on offshore frameworks usually means minimal regulatory oversight, a big red flag for state regulators.

Potential Consequences

If MyBookie fails to comply, the MGCB may team with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. The result? Possible civil or criminal penalties, including fines up to $25,000 per infraction. Additionally, state prosecutors might issue misdemeanor charges, imposing both legal and reputational damages. For MyBookie’s leadership, ignoring the directive could cost them any chance of future legitimacy in regulated U.S. markets.

Henry Williams says the MGCB is fully prepared to uphold local laws. He warns that stopping these illegal sites is essential for public safety, consumer protection, and overall trust in licensed operations. With that, operators seeking to serve Michigan must satisfy the state’s thorough licensing process—no shortcuts allowed.

By issuing a cease-and-desist order to MyBookie.ag, the MGCB reaffirms its stance against unlicensed gambling in Michigan. The crackdown highlights the seriousness with which the regulator tackles offshore operators that circumvent local rules. From deposit and withdrawal methods to valid licensing, states like Michigan insist on compliance. Faced with looming fines and legal action, MyBookie’s next steps remain uncertain. For now, the message is clear: Michigan’s gaming authorities won’t tolerate unauthorized online betting.