Sweepstakes casino operator Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW) has announced that it will exit Michigan as the state intensifies its crackdown on unlicensed platforms. VGW’s decision to leave the Great Lakes State will impact the operations of its three sweepstake casino brands – Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Global Poker.
Michigan Gets Tough on Unregulated Online Poker Sites
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has in recent months kept a close eye on unlicensed operators offering their services to Michiganders, as part of its campaign against illegal gambling.
Michigan launched its regulated online poker market in April 2021, allowing local players to compete for real money at licensed online poker rooms. However, there are still online poker sites in Michigan operating using a sweepstakes model. They operate like social casinos whereby customers play using virtual currencies, not real money deposits.
However, the virtual currencies are available for purchase and can be redeemed for cash. Such operations are unregulated in the state and authorities are now trying to get rid of sweepstake-style sites one by one. Last month, a similar platform, Golden Hearts Games, was also ordered by the MGCB to terminate their operations.
Global Poker Accounts to be Deactivated on Feb. 1, 2024
As for the VGW, its Global Poker site will no longer accept Gold Coin purchases from November 1, but players may still play on the platform using their remaining coins until December 1. Customers have until February 1, 2024 to redeem any Sweeps Coins accumulated before December 1, 2023.
The VGW will proceed with the deactivation of all players’ accounts on Global Poker on February 1, 2024.
