Arizona Enforces Market Exit for Six Illegal Gambling Operators
The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has taken decisive regulatory steps by ordering six gambling operators to immediately stop providing access to Arizona residents and visitors. These platforms, accused of running unlicensed gambling activities, are now under enforcement as part of the state's larger effort to protect consumers from the dangers of unregulated online gaming.
According to the ADG, cease-and-desist orders were issued to both domestic and international companies offering unauthorized forms of gambling, such as slot-style games, sports wagering, sweepstakes, horse race betting, and peer-to-peer betting exchanges. These services were identified as operating outside the boundaries of Arizona’s legal framework for gambling.
Platforms Cited in Sweep Include Sweepstakes, Sports, and Peer Betting Sites
Among the targeted companies are ARB Gaming, LLC—known for operating the MODO.us and Modo platforms via BITMODO LLC—and Epic Hunts, a sweepstakes provider. Additional names include sports betting site Generiz, the peer-to-peer betting exchange ProphetX, and multi-vertical operators MyBookie and BetUS.com.pa.
The ADG alleges that these platforms are in violation of multiple state laws. Charges include promoting unlawful gambling, operating a criminal enterprise, and engaging in money laundering. These accusations fall under Arizona Revised Statutes §§ 13-3303, 13-2312, and 13-2317, which collectively address illegal gambling and related criminal conduct.
“Illegal gaming—no matter the platform or format—has no place in Arizona,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “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.”
The department has instructed each operator to shut down all Arizona-facing operations and to block access for users within the state moving forward.
ADG Warns Public of Financial and Identity Risks
Alongside these enforcement actions, the ADG released a public alert to inform residents of the risks posed by engaging with unauthorized gambling operators. The advisory highlights concerns such as identity theft, consumer fraud, and the potential for users to lose funds without recourse.
“Many of these operations are not legal or regulated, leaving users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft and other serious risks,” the department warned. A similar advisory had been published in February, in which the agency cautioned against companies posing as legitimate gaming providers while operating unlawfully.
Jackie Johnson added, “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.”
Public Education and Reporting Measures Expanded
In addition to enforcement and public advisories, the ADG is working to raise awareness among residents regarding how to identify and report illegal gambling activity. The agency urges players to verify any gambling platform through its online registry of licensed casinos, sportsbooks, fantasy sports platforms, and racing operations available at gaming.az.gov.
For those suspecting unlawful gaming, the department offers a detailed reporting process. Residents are encouraged to save website addresses, gather promotional materials, and report incidents to both the ADG and the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. Reports can be filed anonymously by phone, email, or through the official ADG website.
Moreover, individuals affected by illegal gambling or those concerned about problem gambling are encouraged to seek help through the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling. The state provides 24/7 support via the NEXT STEP helpline at 1-800-NEXT STEP or by texting “NEXTSTEP” to 53342.
Source:Arizona Orders Six Gambling Operators to Exit Market, RealMoneyAction, April 22, 2024.