Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW), the world’s largest operator of illegal online sweepstakes casinos, has ceased operations in Michigan.
The Michigan government signaled a major shift in enforcement against illegal online sweepstakes casinos by forcing VGW to cease operations. This marks one of the first instances of a major illegal sweepstakes casino operator exiting a state due to regulatory pressure.
VGW’s Michigan Exit: A Sign of Things to Come?
Michigan’s crackdown shows that state governments are increasingly unwilling to tolerate unlicensed and illegal online gambling operators like VGW.
The fact that VGW voluntarily withdrew from Michigan rather than fight and risk enforcement action suggests that even the largest illegal sweepstakes casinos may see their business model as unsustainable.
With multiple states now cracking down on these operations, the future of VGW and other illegal online gambling businesses is more uncertain than ever.
About Fair Gaming Advocates
At Fair Gaming Advocates we promote integrity and fairness in gaming. We achieve this through education, guidance, and legal action to protect consumers from deceptive and illegal gambling businesses.
About VGW and Laurence Escalante
VGW is an illegal gambling operation that pioneered the illegal online sweepstakes casino business model. VGW operates Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker; VGW is the world’s largest operator of illegal online sweepstakes casinos. Laurence Escalante, an ostentatious and controversial gambling billionaire, founded VGW in 2010 and has illegally earned billions of dollars since its inception.