Arizona's gaming regulators have expanded their enforcement campaign against unlicensed online gambling operators, issuing cease-and-desist orders to five platforms after uncovering evidence of illegal gambling activity and access by underage users. The orders were issued to BetOpenly, Bookmaker, Club WPT Online Poker, Kutt Inc., and Raffle Creator, with each order alleging conduct that could support felony charges. The alleged offenses include promotion of gambling, illegal control of an enterprise, and money laundering. The enforcement actions are part of a broader effort to protect Arizonans from the risks associated with illegal online gambling.
The latest enforcement follows a series of similar actions taken by the state's gaming regulators in 2025, during which multiple cease-and-desist orders were issued to unlicensed operators targeting Arizona residents with unauthorized gambling products. The products included slot-style casino games, sweepstakes models, sports betting, horse race wagering, and peer-to-peer betting exchanges. The regulators also ordered several other operators to stop offering gambling services in the state, alleging they were providing access to illegal online gambling platforms.
The notified entities have been directed to immediately stop all gambling operations and activities in Arizona. The state's gaming regulators have emphasized that their top priority is protecting Arizonans, particularly from the risks associated with underage gambling and illegal activity. The current enforcement actions are part of broader public safety efforts tied to Arizona law, which prohibits gambling unless it is specifically authorized and sets the legal gambling age at 21.
The alleged offenses committed by the five operators vary, but all involve operating without the required state licenses and making gambling activities available to underage Arizona users. BetOpenly allegedly operated peer-to-peer sports betting and casino games, while Bookmaker accepted wagers on horse racing, sports, and casino games without the required licenses. Club WPT Online Poker is accused of allowing Arizona residents under 21 to participate in pay-to-play online poker tournaments, and Kutt Inc. operated a platform that allowed users to deposit money and wager on various activities.
The cease-and-desist orders direct all five operators to immediately stop gambling operations in Arizona and prohibit future illegal gambling activity in the state. The regulators have warned that future enforcement could include criminal charges or civil actions against the companies, their principals, and employees, along with restitution claims from consumers and forfeiture of funds allegedly obtained through illegal conduct. The state's gaming regulators have repeatedly warned that many gambling platforms accessible in Arizona are neither licensed nor regulated, exposing users to risks including fraud, identity theft, and financial losses.
