Mississippi Gaming Commission’s Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling
Enforcement Actions Overview
The Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) has taken decisive action against unauthorized online gambling operators by issuing cease-and-desist letters to companies illegally offering casino games and sports betting to Mississippi residents. This enforcement effort targets both domestic and offshore operators violating state and federal gambling laws.
Legal Framework & Violations
Prohibited Activities
- Online casino games
- Sports betting
- “Sweepstakes” casinos
- Remote wagering of any kind
Violated Statutes
- Mississippi Gaming Control Act
- Mississippi Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act
- Federal Wire Act
Current Mississippi Law
All casino-style gaming and sports wagering must occur exclusively at licensed physical casino establishments within the state. Online gambling is explicitly prohibited outside these licensed venues.
Deceptive Practices Targeted
The MGC specifically identified operators using:
- Images and logos of licensed Mississippi casinos without permission
- Misleading advertisements on platforms like Facebook
- Branding that falsely suggests online casino gambling is legal in Mississippi
Official Statements
Jay McDaniel, Executive Director of the MGC, emphasized:
“Our laws are clear that casino-style gaming and sports wagering are not allowed online in Mississippi, outside of a licensed casino. The MGC will aggressively pursue both domestic and offshore illegal operators.”
The MGC highlighted that illegal gambling platforms:
- Evade regulatory oversight
- Fail to contribute tax revenue to the state
- Mislead residents about their legality
Enforcement Approach
- Distribution of cease-and-desist letters electronically and by mail
- Preparation of criminal case files for state and federal law enforcement
- Request for prosecution of violators
Consumer Protection Measures
The MGC has warned Mississippi residents that:
- Participation in illegal online gambling may result in legal consequences
- Money deposited with illegal platforms could be lost
- Residents who lost money may be entitled to compensation under Mississippi Code Ann. § 87-1-5
Global Regulatory Context
Mississippi’s enforcement approach contrasts with regulatory models in other jurisdictions:
|
Jurisdiction
|
Regulatory Approach
|
Online Gambling Stance
|
|---|---|---|
|
Mississippi
|
Prohibition/Enforcement
|
Illegal outside licensed physical casinos
|
|
Italy
|
Regulated Market
|
Licensing with technical integration requirements
|
|
New Zealand
|
Moving to Regulation
|
Proposed licensing for online casinos
|
|
Brazil
|
Developing Framework
|
Google Play Store allowing licensed apps
|
|
Nevis
|
Licensing Authority
|
Creating new online gaming licensing framework
|
Key Takeaways
- Mississippi maintains a strict prohibition against online gambling outside licensed physical venues
- The MGC is actively pursuing both domestic and offshore operators
- Deceptive marketing practices using legitimate casino branding are a specific target
- Consumers face potential legal and financial risks from using illegal platforms
- This enforcement represents a protectionist approach to preserve the state’s regulated casino industry
Mississippi’s actions highlight the diverse approaches to online gambling regulation globally, ranging from complete prohibition to licensed market frameworks, with each jurisdiction balancing consumer protection, tax revenue, and industry interests differently.
