Bovada, a Curacao-based online casino platform, has been ordered to cease operations in Arizona, making it the 17th U.S. jurisdiction to issue such a demand to the offshore gambling operator.

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) alleges that Bovada is operating an illegal gambling business, engaging in money laundering, and promoting unlawful gambling - all felony violations under state law.

ADG Director Jackie Johnson emphasized the department's commitment to preventing unauthorized operations and protecting Arizona's gaming integrity. Bovada has complied with the order, adding Arizona to its list of restricted markets.

Currently, legal online casino gaming is only permitted in seven U.S. states:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• West Virginia

Bovada, formerly known as Bodog, is now banned in 16 states and Washington, D.C. This crackdown reflects growing concerns about offshore gambling websites and sweepstakes casinos, which often operate without proper consumer protections or regulatory oversight.

State regulators warn that offshore gambling platforms lack essential safeguards like:

• Fair play guarantees
• Secure fund withdrawal processes
• Consumer protection measures
• Proper regulatory oversight

Unlike licensed operators such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM, offshore operators like Bovada pay no U.S. licensing fees or taxes, creating an unfair advantage over regulated businesses that comply with state laws and contribute to local economies.

Related Articles

Previous Articles