The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has mandated five online gambling operators to cease their activities in the state, citing claims of illegal gambling practices that pose risks to consumers.

The department sent cease-and-desist notices to BetOpenly, Bookmaker, Club WPT Online Poker, Kutt Inc., and Raffle Creator.

ADG asserts that these enforcement actions stem from allegations of felony-level crimes, which include facilitating unlawful gambling, managing an illicit business, and engaging in money laundering.

“Arizona is taking firm measures against illegal gambling entities that jeopardize the welfare of Arizonans,” remarked Department Director Jackie Johnson. She emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting the public and warned operators to stop their operations immediately.

Arizona law typically prohibits gambling unless it is specifically sanctioned by statute, with the legal gambling age set at 21.

The department claims that BetOpenly provided sports betting and casino-like games while profiting from commissions. Furthermore, regulators allege that the platform allowed sports betting and daily fantasy sports contests without the necessary Arizona licenses and may have permitted individuals under 21 to take part.

According to ADG, Bookmaker took bets on horse racing, sports betting, and casino-type games without state permission. Officials have highlighted that online casino gaming remains prohibited in Arizona.

ADG asserts that Club WPT Online Poker allowed Arizona residents below the age of 21 to join pay-to-play online poker tournaments for prizes. Regulators have also criticized the platform’s use of “no purchase necessary” phrasing as misleading, maintaining that online poker is illegal in the state.

Furthermore, the department alleges that Kutt Inc. accepted deposits from users in Arizona and facilitated betting on sports and other events while also offering casino-style games. Officials contend that the platform does not qualify under Arizona’s social gambling exemption, as a third party purportedly accrued profits from the activity.

Meanwhile, the department claims that Raffle Creator did not adhere to Arizona’s regulations governing nonprofit raffles and permitted individuals under 21 to buy tickets for prize drawings.

Operators may face further legal actions, including criminal prosecution or civil enforcement proceedings. Officials also indicated they might pursue restitution for affected consumers and seek the forfeiture of funds allegedly tied to the unlawful gambling activities.

ADG has advised Arizona residents to confirm that any sportsbook or fantasy sports platform they engage with appears on the department’s approved operator list as part of its “Check Your Bet” consumer awareness initiative.