Florida Orders Overseas Betting Sites to Shut Down

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February 5th, 2025
Back Florida Orders Overseas Betting Sites to Shut Down

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has issued cease-and-desist notices to three overseas online gambling platforms—BetUS, Bovada, and MyBookie—directing them to halt their operations in the state. The commission alleges that these companies are facilitating illegal wagering in Florida, which is strictly regulated under state law.

FGCC Takes Action Against Unauthorized Gambling

On Monday, the FGCC formally notified the parent companies behind these platforms—Milvus Ltc (BetUS), Harp Media B.V. (Bovada), and Gaming Services Provider, N.V. (MyBookie)—that their activities violate Florida law. The commission's statement emphasized that these operators accept bets on sports, horse racing, and various other gaming activities, which constitutes a felony under Florida statutes.

According to the cease-and-desist letters, the accused platforms enable users to place wagers on point spreads, moneylines, and proposition bets, among other betting options. The FGCC outlined that such operations fall under illegal gambling in Florida, citing state law:

"Under Florida law, this conduct is a felony offense. See § 849.14, Fla. Stat. Further, it is a felony offense to receive illegal wagers on the result of any trial or contest of skill, speed or power or endurance of human or beast, or to aid, assist, or abet such illegal wagering."

Strict Gaming Regulations in Florida

FGCC Executive Director Ross Marshman reaffirmed Florida's stringent regulations regarding gambling operations. He highlighted the fact that legal gaming establishments in the state are limited to eight state-licensed slot machine businesses and six tribal gaming locations operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

"Gaming, both land-based and online, is strictly regulated in Florida," Marshman stated. He also stressed that Hard Rock Bet, operated by the Seminole Tribe, remains the only authorized online sportsbook within the state. "Anyone in Florida betting on the Big Game needs to know this. Bettor beware."

The commission further asserted that unauthorized gambling platforms provide no benefits to the state. Unlike licensed establishments, which contribute to state funding, illegal operators do not generate tax revenue for public programs. In 2024, the Florida Educational Enhancement Trust Fund received more than $240 million from the state's eight legal slot machine venues. Additionally, the Seminole Tribe of Florida is projected to contribute no less than $2.5 billion in revenue-sharing payments over the next five years.

Wider Crackdown on Illegal Operators

Florida's move follows similar enforcement actions in other states. While this is the first time BetUS has been targeted, both Bovada and MyBookie have faced regulatory scrutiny in multiple jurisdictions.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) recently issued a cease-and-desist order against MyBookie.ag, with Executive Director Henry Williams stating: "Our investigation into MyBookie.ag found that their operations were accessible to Michigan citizens, which violates state laws. We are taking strong action to uphold the principles of fair and legal gaming."

Bovada has also faced increasing regulatory pressure, leading to its withdrawal from 17 states and Washington, D.C. Most recently, the company restricted access in New Hampshire following a cease-and-desist order from the New Hampshire Lottery Commission.

Bovada's restricted markets now include:

  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Kansas
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania
  • Tennessee
  • Washington, D.C.
  • West Virginia  

The FGCC’s actions signal Florida's firm stance against unauthorized gambling operators. While legal options remain limited to state-approved venues and Hard Rock Bet, regulators are making it clear that unlicensed platforms will not be tolerated.

Source:

Florida Gaming Control Commission (official PR) (pdf)

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