The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) issued multiple cease-and-desist orders to unlicensed gambling operators Thursday. The operators include providers of sweepstakes casinos, sweepstakes sportsbooks, and online gambling platforms.
ADG Sent Cease-And-Desist Orders To Six Operators
Six operators received ADG cease-and-desist orders: ARB Gaming LLC d/b/a Modo.us, BetUS.com.pa., Epic Hunts, Generiz, MyBookie, and ProphetX.
The named operators are allegedly “providing access to various illegal online gaming services, including slot-style casino games, ‘sweepstakes’ platforms, sports wagering, horse race betting, and peer-to-peer wagering exchanges,” according to the ADG.
By gaming category for operators, this breaks down to the following:
- Sweepstakes:
○ ARB Gaming, LLC d/b/a Modo.us
■ MODO.us (online casino) / BITMODO LLC
■ Modo
○ Epic Hunts
- Event Wagering Sportsbook:
○ Generiz
- Peer-to-Peer Exchange:
○ ProphetX
- Offers Multiple Types:
○ MyBookie
○ BetUS.com.pa
Platforms Violated Three Arizona Gaming Laws
Furthermore, the gaming platforms are claimed to be in violation of three Arizona gaming laws: Promotion of Gambling (Felony) — A.R.S. § 13-3303, Illegal Control of an Enterprise (Felony) — A.R.S. § 13-2312, and Money Laundering (Felony) — A.R.S. § 13-2317.
“Illegal gaming — no matter the platform or format — has no place in Arizona. Whether it’s sweepstakes, online casino-style games, or unauthorized sports betting, if an operation exists outside of the state’s legal and regulatory framework, we are prepared to take enforcement action,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the ADG.
“Illegal gambling is not just unlawful — it’s stealing from our economy and undermining the safeguards that protect consumers. The Department fully supports the licensed and regulated operators who are doing things the right way — operating within the bounds of the law, contributing to Arizona’s economy, and providing the protections that only a regulated market can ensure.”
ADG Advocates For Regulated Gaming
In addition, the ADG said regulated gaming offers consumer protections to bettors, such as providing “fair play, data security, accountability, and a safer overall experience.”
Unregulated online platforms expose users to fraud, identity theft, and financial loss, according to the ADG. The Department of Gaming also added that just because the site is accessible and the app can be downloaded, it doesn’t mean the platform is legal or safe.
Sweeps operators use a “dual currency” system that lets players play for free. However, the platforms also allow users to wager and win real money by buying virtual coins.