The Arizona Department of Gaming has issued cease-and-desist orders to five companies for operating without proper licenses. The agency aims to protect the regulated market and strengthen consumer safety measures.
The orders target BetOpenly, Bookmaker, Club WPT Online Poker, Kutt Inc., and Raffle Creator. Regulators identified violations regarding licensing requirements and age restrictions across these platforms.
Specific Violations and Penalties
BetOpenly allegedly operated a commission-based peer-to-peer betting system without a license while allowing underage users. Bookmaker was cited for facilitating sports and casino wagering without the necessary event wagering or advanced deposit provider licenses. Club WPT Online Poker faced accusations for permitting individuals under 21 to join pay-to-play tournaments using deceptive language.
Kutt Inc. was directed to stop Arizona users from depositing funds for sports and casino-style games because a third party benefited from the activity. Raffle Creator was accused of failing to meet non-profit requirements and allowing under-21 ticket purchases. The department warned that further enforcement may include criminal charges, civil actions, and financial forfeiture.
Director Jackie Johnson stated that the department is "taking decisive action against illegal gambling operators that put Arizonans at risk."