Wyoming Gaming Commission issues warning over illegal igaming
The regulator has warned that online casinos, igaming and sweepstakes are illegal under Wyoming state law.
US.- The Wyoming Gaming Commission has issued a warning to the public regarding illegal online gaming websites and apps in the state. The agency stressed that, while online sports betting and fantasy sports are allowed in Wyoming, online casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette for real money are not allowed.
According to the Commission, many unregulated entities are targeting Wyoming residents with illegal igaming services, including unlicensed sweepstakes and social casino sites that offer real money payouts. It said: “These operations, often based offshore, include sites that may appear legitimate but lack any regulatory oversight in Wyoming. Some of these operations have even created Wyoming LLC’s and display Wyoming addresses on their websites.”
Executive director Nicholas Larramendy said: “We want to make it unequivocally clear: no online casino, igaming, or sweepstakes site is licensed by the Wyoming Gaming Commission, and they are all operating illegally in Wyoming.
“We strongly encourage everyone to avoid these websites, however, patrons who choose to engage with these unlicensed platforms do so at their own risk. The Wyoming Gaming Commission cannot provide assistance or intervention in cases of disputes regarding winnings, or other account issues arising from participation in illegal igaming. Again, because most of these operations are based outside of the United States, enforcement of local laws becomes difficult. The Wyoming Gaming Commission will do our best to attempt to shut down the operation in our state when we become aware of an illegal operation.”
In February, HB 162, a bill that would have legalised igaming in the state failed to receive support to move out of a House committee and was postponed indefinitely. The legislation introduced by Robert Davis would have allowed online gaming on tribal lands through a state gaming agreement as Wyoming only has tribal casinos.
