Arizona Issues Cease-and-Desist Orders

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The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has taken decisive action against five online gambling operators by issuing cease-and-desist orders, signaling the state’s strict enforcement of gambling laws. The operators targeted are BetOpenly, Bookmaker, Club WPT Online Poker, Kutt Inc., and Raffle Creator. Authorities cited violations that included promoting illegal gambling, unlicensed business operations, and potential money laundering activity.

BetOpenly was specifically called out for offering peer-to-peer Sports Betting, commission-based casino games, and daily fantasy contests without appropriate state licensing, and allegedly allowing access to minors. Similarly, Bookmaker was flagged for facilitating wagering on horse racing, Sports Betting, and online casino games without obtaining the required Arizona licenses. Club WPT Online Poker drew scrutiny for enabling minors to participate in pay-to-play tournaments under misleading “no purchase necessary” language.

Kutt Inc. continued to allow deposits and wagers on a wide range of events, including sports, politics, and pop culture, in contravention of Arizona’s social gambling rules prohibiting third-party profit. Raffle Creator was cited for failing to comply with legal requirements for conducting lawful raffles and for permitting underage ticket purchases.

Regulatory Enforcement and Legal Consequences​

ADG Director Jackie Johnson emphasized that the state’s priority is consumer protection. “Arizona is taking decisive action against illegal gambling operators that put Arizonans at risk. Their conduct runs contrary to Arizona law and must stop,” Johnson said, as reported by KOLD. The cease-and-desist orders require the operators to immediately halt all gambling operations, whether through online platforms or mobile apps. Failure to comply could lead to criminal or civil actions against the companies, their principals, and employees. Furthermore, the state may pursue restitution for affected players and seize any funds associated with unlawful gambling.

The recent enforcement action reflects a broader trend, as Arizona has sent cease-and-desist orders to more than ten operators since 2025, targeting unlicensed operators and sweepstakes casino games. Last year, firms including Stake.us, High 5 Casino, ARB Gaming, MyBookie, and Generiz faced similar regulatory actions, reinforcing Arizona’s rigorous oversight of its gaming environment.

Among the five targeted operators, Club WPT Online Poker has faced consistent scrutiny due to its attempts to operate under sweepstakes laws, which regulators argue do not exempt online poker from state prohibitions. The ADG alleges that the platform’s use of “sweepstakes” terminology was misleading and deceptive, allowing underage participation and circumventing Arizona law prohibiting online poker. The platform has adapted its operations in other states, including California and New York, where regulatory frameworks differ, but it remains under review in multiple U.S. markets.

Protecting Consumers and Upholding State Law​

Arizona law strictly limits gambling to licensed operators and sets the minimum gambling age at 21. The ADG encourages residents to use its “Check Your Bet” tool to verify approved operators before engaging in any form of online gambling or fantasy sports. The agency’s actions against these five companies underline its commitment to protecting consumers from illegal and potentially harmful gambling activity while enforcing the integrity of Arizona’s licensed gaming sector.