Offshore betting and online casino online Bovada added Michigan to the list of states that cannot access the website.
The move comes about three weeks after the Michigan Gaming Control Board issued a cease-and-desist letter to Bovada.
Another state could be added shortly. Connecticut‘s gaming regulator confirmed to LSR it sent a cease-and-desist to the sports betting and iGaming company’s parent company on June 14.
Offshore betting site out in 7 states
Michigan is the seventh state to be added to Bovada’s blocked list. Potential bettors in those states are greeted with a message stating, "We currently don’t offer services in your area.”
It is not possible to even sign up for the sportsbook while in a prohibited state. Also on the list:
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Maryland
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New York
Connecticut orders ‘immediate’ stop
That list could grow to eight soon if Bovada complies with a letter sent by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. The letter, sent via registered mail to a Curaçao address, cited the various statutes broken by operating without a license.
"The Department, therefore, orders Bovada to cease and desist advertising and offering its games and services to Connecticut customers,” the letter states. "… Bovada is hereby ordered to immediately cease and desist offering its games and services to Connecticut Customers.
"Bovada must also continue to allow all Connecticut Customers to withdraw any funds currently held by Bovada.”
Withdrawals only in crypto
Bovada bettors in shuttered states do not get the same treatment as those in unblocked states.
Withdrawal from a state that has been blocked must go through customer service to "arrange a cryptocurrency withdrawal.” Bovada’s unblocked states, meanwhile, can withdraw in crypto, as well as checks and vouchers.
It is unclear if the limited option will satisfy the DCP’s order to allow Connecticut customers to withdraw their funds. A DCP spokesperson did not respond before publication.
https://pechanga.net/bovada-blocked-in-michigan-connecticut-follows-suit-p47342-277.htm