Minnesota AG Issues Cease-and-Desist Orders to 14 Illegal Gambling Sites
The Minnesota Attorney General, Keith Ellison, has launched a major enforcement action targeting illegal online gambling operations in the state. On November 7, 2025, Ellison announced the issuance of cease-and-desist orders to 14 unlicensed offshore sportsbooks and sweepstakes-style casinos. These sites, including well-known operators like Bovada, MyBookie, and BetOnline, have been ordered to cease operations in Minnesota by December 1, 2025. This crackdown aims to protect residents from the risks associated with unregulated gambling activities, according to Yogonet.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Minnesota AG orders 14 illegal gambling sites to cease by December 1, 2025.
- Ellison targets Bovada, MyBookie, BetOnline among 14 offshore sites.
- State warns sites in June 2025; warnings ignored, leading to crackdown.
- Civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation are now enforceable.
14 Offshore Sites Targeted in Minnesota Enforcement
Ellison's office has identified 14 specific gambling sites that are operating unlawfully within Minnesota. These include VG LuckyLand, Zula Casino, Fortune Coins, and others, as noted by offeref="/guides/bonus-hunting-guide">offergal-igaming/">Gaming Intelligence. The targeted platforms offer a range of gambling services, from traditional casino games and sports betting to sweepstakes casinos that use virtual currency. The use of these sites by Minnesota residents is illegal under state law, which permits only tribal casinos to offer gambling services.
Crackdown Follows Ignored Warnings from June 2025
Prior to this enforcement action, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division had issued warnings to these sites in June 2025. However, as these warnings were largely ignored, the Attorney General's office decided to escalate the matter. According to iGamingToday, the state is now prepared to impose civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation and pursue further legal action if necessary.
Concerns Over Consumer Protection and Fair Play
The primary concern driving this crackdown is consumer protection. According to a statement from the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Bob Jacobson, these illegal operators present significant risks to Minnesota consumers. They are not subject to local regulatory oversight, which means there is no guarantee of fair play or payment. Ellison emphasized that these operators often engage in deceptive practices, posing a threat to vulnerable populations susceptible to gambling addiction and financial exploitation.
Implications for Minnesota's Legal Gambling Framework
Minnesota's legal framework for gambling strictly prohibits online casinos and sports betting, reserving gambling rights exclusively for tribal casinos. The crackdown on illegal operations underscores the state's commitment to enforcing these laws and protecting its residents. This action may also influence future discussions about potential gambling law reforms, as the state evaluates how best to address the demand for online gambling in a regulated and safe manner.
Future Implications and Responsible Gambling Measures
The crackdown is not just a legal measure but also a step towards promoting responsible gambling in Minnesota. By enforcing these laws, the state aims to reduce the incidence of problem gambling. For residents, this serves as a reminder to engage only with regulated gambling venues, which offer self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, and access to support resources for those at risk of gambling addiction. As the situation evolves, Minnesota will continue to monitor and adapt its strategies to ensure consumer safety and legal compliance within the gambling industry, as highlighted by Saint Paul Patch.
- Cease-and-desist orders issued to 14 sites including Bovada and MyBookie.
- Operators must comply by December 1, 2025, or face penalties.
- Action aims to protect consumers from unregulated gambling risks.
For further information and resources on problem gambling, residents are encouraged to visit the Minnesota Department of Human Services, where they can find support and prevention tools.