Maine’s Gambling Control Unit (GCU) has issued a proper warning concerning the proliferation of unlawful interactive gaming (“iGaming”) platforms working inside the state. The warning emphasised that whereas sure types of on-line playing—equivalent to advance deposit wagering, fantasy contests, and sports activities betting—are legally permitted and controlled in Maine, on-line casino-style video games stay strictly prohibited. This contains video games like slots, blackjack, and roulette when performed for actual cash. The warning goes on to state: “Of specific concern are so-called “sweepstakes” or “social on line casino” websites which will supply real-money payouts, dual-currency techniques, or prizes equivalent to present playing cards. These platforms aren’t licensed or overseen by the GCU.”
The warning additional notes that quite a few unregulated entities proceed to focus on Maine residents, providing illicit iGaming alternatives and that these operations, usually primarily based out of state or in another country, embody websites which will seem official however lack any regulatory oversight in Maine. The GCU additional warns that no on-line on line casino, iGaming, or sweepstakes website is licensed by the GCU. It encourages folks to keep away from these web sites and cautions that patrons who select to interact with these unlicensed platforms accomplish that at their very own danger.
That is the newest in a string of state actions specializing in social on line casino sweepstakes and associated websites. We lately posted about current actions taken in opposition to social on line casino sweepstakes by the NY AG.