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The Wyoming Gaming Commission issued a warning about illegal iGaming websites targeting state residents. These unlicensed operators run online casinos, poker rooms, and other gambling sites without state approval.
Many of these operations work from offshore locations. But some try to look legitimate by creating Wyoming LLCs and displaying Wyoming addresses on their websites.
Executive Director Nicholas Larramendy made it clear that “no online casino, iGaming, or sweepstakes site is licensed by the Wyoming Gaming Commission.” He said they’re all operating illegally in the state.
Larramendy said: “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.”
Some platforms market themselves as “sweepstakes” or “social casino” sites. But they still offer real-money payouts without proper licensing.
Online casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette remain strictly prohibited in Wyoming. Only sports betting and fantasy sports are legal for residents.
The Commission says numerous unregulated entities keep targeting Wyoming residents with illicit services. These sites lack any regulatory oversight in the state.
Officials want to protect residents who might not realise these operations are illegal. The warning comes as more people encounter online gambling ads.
Wyoming law prohibits online casino games including slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker for real money. The Commission specifically mentioned solitaire cash games in their warning.
Licensed sports wagering operators do exist in Wyoming. These companies reportedly undergo rigorous scrutiny and follow strict regulations to protect consumers.
The Commission maintains a list of legitimate operators on their website at gaming.wyo.gov. Only these licensed companies can legally offer online gambling in Wyoming.
Wyoming officials can’t provide assistance when residents have disputes with illegal gambling sites. Larramendy said patrons who use unlicensed platforms “do so at their own risk.”
The Commission tries to shut down illegal operations when they discover them. But enforcement becomes difficult because most sites operate outside the United States.
Officials ask residents to exercise “extreme caution” when they see online gambling advertisements. They encourage anyone with questions about a site’s legality to contact their office directly.
The Commission commented: “Our primary responsibility is to protect the integrity of gaming in Wyoming and safeguard its citizens. We urge anyone with questions about the legality of a particular online gambling site or service to contact our office directly.”
Wyoming Gaming Commission’s recent regulatory efforts arrived shortly after the Fanatics Sportsbook entered the state this month, becoming Wyoming’s 21st licensed online sports wagering operation, expanding its regulated market options.
