NGCB issues cease-and-desist order to Playgon over unlicensed live dealer operations
Playgon ordered to halt unlicensed live dealer operations while its affiliate Bitrate has been accused of falsely claiming a license wasn't required
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has issued a cease-and-desist order to Playgon and its affiliate Bitrate Productions.
The NGCB has instructed Playgon Interactive and Bitrate to immediately cease its unlicensed live dealer content production, based out of a studio in the Silver State.
NGCB chairman Kirk Hendrick signed the order, which accuses Bitrate of using live dealers for casino games such as baccarat and roulette without having the required licensing from the state’s gaming regulator.
As made clear in the cease-and-desist order, dated July 18, 2024, Playgon’s lawyers are alleged to have falsely claimed in 2016 that Bitrate’s activities would be solely for entertainment purposes and therefore would not require Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) licensing.
However, the NGCB has since claimed: “At some point, however, Bitrate’s activities went beyond social gaming.”
The NGCB’s letter makes clear that Playgon and its affiliate Bitrate have until 5pm on Friday, July 26 to cease all operations or risk facing criminal or civil actions.
It also outlines that Nevada law empowers the NGCB to investigate and prosecute should any aspect of the Nevada Gaming Control Act have been violated.
Chairman Hendrick reaffirmed the NGCB’s stance, adding: “The NGCB will take all necessary action to enforce Nevada’s gaming laws and regulations.”
Nevada isn’t the only state to issue a cease-and-desist order, just last month Connecticut delivered a similar letter to Bovada, an offshore sportsbook already banned in Nevada, as well as New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan, and Delaware.
A representative from Connecticut’s relevant gaming division told EGR North America on June 12: “There are only three licensed gaming operators in the state of Connecticut.
“The DCP [Department of Consumer Protection] Gaming Division sends cease-and-desist letters anytime they become aware of a company operating illegally in our state. The Division does plan to send a cease-and-desist letter to Bovada.”