A wave of legal action has swept across Tennessee, targeting a network of online casinos operating under the guise of promotional sweepstakes. Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced a decisive crackdown, sending formal cease-and-desist letters to nearly 40 platforms accused of running illegal gambling operations within the state.
The Attorney General’s office moved swiftly, successfully halting the unlawful activities of these online casinos. Each platform targeted has either disabled its illegal components immediately or committed to a firm shutdown date in the coming weeks, demonstrating a clear response to the legal pressure.
Skrmetti emphasized the predatory nature of these operations, stating bluntly, “The only thing you can be sure about with an online sweepstakes casino is that it’s going to take your money.” These platforms, he explained, meticulously craft an illusion of legitimacy while actively avoiding any regulatory oversight that would guarantee fairness or honesty.
This enforcement isn’t an isolated incident. The Attorney General noted a growing national trend, with states across the country taking similar action against platforms exploiting “sweepstakes language” to circumvent gambling laws. This coordinated effort highlights a widespread concern about the proliferation of unregulated online gambling.
The crackdown serves as a stark warning to any remaining or prospective sweepstakes casinos operating within Tennessee. The message is unequivocal: illegal gambling will not be tolerated, and the state will vigorously defend its citizens from predatory practices.
The list of casinos that received cease-and-desist letters includes prominent names like American Luck, Chumba, FunzCity, Golden Hearts Games, High 5 Casino, Luckyland, McLuck, Stake, WOW Vegas, and Zula Casino, among others. This comprehensive action signals a significant step towards protecting Tennesseans from unlawful gambling schemes.
Skrmetti’s office views this as a crucial victory in safeguarding consumers. By dismantling these deceptive operations, they aim to prevent further financial harm and ensure a fair and regulated gambling landscape for the future.
