Arizona Moves Against Five Gambling Platforms

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has issued cease-and-desist orders against five operators following investigations into alleged illegal gambling activity, including claims involving underage participation and unlicensed gaming operations.

The notices were sent to BetOpenly, Bookmaker, Club WPT Online Poker, Kutt Inc., and Raffle Creator. The department said each case involves allegations connected to promotion of gambling, illegal control of an enterprise and money laundering.

The action forms part of the regulator’s efforts to protect Arizona’s legal gaming market. State law prohibits gambling unless it has specific authorization, while the legal gambling age in Arizona is 21.

“Arizona is taking decisive action against illegal gambling operators that put Arizonans at risk,” said Jackie Johnson, Department Director. “Our top priority is protecting Arizonans and I’m grateful for the efforts of our intelligence unit led by Chief Law Enforcement Officer Doug Jensen to do just that. Through these cease-and-desist orders we are putting operators on notice: their conduct runs contrary to Arizona law and they must stop promoting illegal gambling.”

Investigations Identify Alleged Violations

The ADG outlined separate concerns involving each platform. BetOpenly was accused of offering peer-to-peer sports betting and casino games through a structure that allegedly allowed the operator to benefit through commissions. The department also alleged the platform provided event wagering and daily fantasy sports contests without required state approvals while allowing access to individuals under 21.

Bookmaker was accused of facilitating wagering on horse racing, casino games and sports betting without an event wagering licence or advanced deposit wagering provider licence. The department noted online casino games are not legal in Arizona.

Club WPT Online Poker faced allegations that it allowed Arizona residents under 21 to participate in paid online poker tournaments for prizes while using “no purchase necessary” language. The department stated online poker is illegal in the state.

Kutt Inc. was directed to stop allowing Arizona users to deposit funds and place wagers on sports, politics, pop culture and casino-style games. The department said the company’s operations allegedly involved prohibited third-party benefits.

Raffle Creator was accused of allowing people under 21 to buy tickets for prize-based draws while failing to meet requirements for lawful nonprofit raffles.

Operators Face Further Action

The cease-and-desist orders require the companies to immediately stop gambling operations in Arizona through mobile applications, online platforms or other channels.

The ADG said additional enforcement could include criminal charges or civil action against the companies, their principals and employees. Operators could also face restitution claims from individuals who lost money and forfeiture proceedings involving funds obtained through alleged illegal conduct.

Arizona officials encouraged residents to confirm that gambling, event wagering or fantasy sports platforms appear on the department’s approved operator list before participating. The regulator said licensed operators must follow state rules and provide consumer protections related to fair play, winnings, data security and accountability.

The department also requested information about suspected illegal gambling activity through its reporting channels, with anonymous submissions available.

The state currently has 14 licensed sportsbooks and recently closed an application window for additional event wagering licences.

Source:

“Arizona Department of Gaming Issues Cease-and-Desist Orders to Multiple Operators Linked to Underage Gambling and Illegal Activity”, gaming.az.gov. Jul 10, 2026