Florida Gaming Commission Acts Against Illegal Online Gambling Operators

In a bold move to protect Floridian gamblers and safeguard the state's regulated gaming industry, the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has issued cease-and-desist orders to three international gambling operators accused of offering illegal online sports betting, casino games, and horse racing to Florida residents. The targeted operators—BetUS, Bovada, and MyBookie—have been ordered to cease their unlawful activities immediately.

Key Operators Targeted

The cease-and-desist orders were directed at the parent companies of BetUS, Bovada, and MyBookie. These operators—Milvus Ltc (BetUS.com.pa), Harp Media B.V. (Bovada.lv), and Gaming Services Provider N.V. (MyBookie.ag)—are accused of running online platforms that illegally facilitate wagering on sports, casino games, and horse racing. The FGCC emphasised that these websites are violating Florida's strict gaming laws, which prohibit unauthorised gambling activities.

Florida's gaming regulations classify these illegal operations as felonies, as they involve unauthorised bets on sports events, including point spreads, moneylines, and futures, as well as illegal online casino games like blackjack, roulette, and poker. Additionally, the operators have been promoting illegal lottery-style games, including cash prize giveaways and deposit-matching promotions, further violating state law.

Stringent Regulations in Florida

Ross Marshman, Executive Director of the FGCC, underscored Florida's commitment to tightly regulating both land-based and online gaming. He highlighted the fact that there are only fourteen legal slot machine operations in the state—eight state-licensed businesses and six tribal gaming locations operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. As for online sports betting, the Seminole Tribe's Hard Rock Bet is the only legal operator in Florida. Marshman warned, "Anyone in Florida betting on the Big Game needs to know this. Bettor beware."

Economic Impact of Legal Gambling

Florida's crackdown on illegal gambling is driven in part by the significant revenue generated by licensed gaming. In 2024, the state's Educational Enhancement Trust Fund received over $240 million in tax revenue from legal slot machine operations alone. Additionally, the Seminole Tribe is expected to contribute $2.5 billion over the next five years to support essential state programs such as water quality improvements, infrastructure development, and land conservation.

In contrast, illegal gambling offers no such benefits to the state and diverts funds away from legitimate businesses. The FGCC has made it clear that such illegal activities not only undermine Florida's regulated gaming market but also place consumers at risk.

A Nationwide Effort Against Illegal Operators

Florida is not alone in its efforts to crack down on illegal gambling operators. Other states are also taking similar actions to protect consumers and enforce gaming laws. Recently, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) issued a cease-and-desist order to MyBookie.ag, which was found to be offering illegal gambling services to Michigan residents. Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB, emphasised the importance of safeguarding legal gaming operations, noting that MyBookie.ag's activities violated state laws.

Bovada, another operator under scrutiny, has already withdrawn from several U.S. markets, including 17 states and Washington, D.C., after receiving cease-and-desist letters. The company has also restricted access in New Hampshire following a similar action by the New Hampshire Lottery Commission.

The Growing National Crackdown

The crackdown on illegal gambling operators is part of a growing national effort to regulate online gaming. As more states recognise the dangers of unlicensed, overseas operators, regulators are ramping up enforcement actions. These operators often fail to comply with local laws, presenting significant risks to both consumers and state economies.

With illegal gambling posing a threat to both the public and the state's economy, Florida's action is a reminder of the importance of supporting legal, licensed gaming operations. As regulators across the country continue to combat illegal gambling, the industry will likely see further enforcement efforts aimed at protecting both consumers and state revenues.