Sweepstakes casino operator Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW) has agreed to pay an $8 million settlement in New York, as revealed by Attorney General Letitia James, after the company was found guilty of running illegal gambling platforms in the state.
According to the settlement, multiple brands owned by VGW were targeted by authorities, including Chumba Casino, Global Poker, and Luckyland Slots, which allowed players to use virtual sweepstakes coins to play casino games and later exchange them for cash or prizes. However, this kind of gambling is banned in New York, as it involves risking something of value.
Attorney General James commented:
“Our state’s gambling laws are designed to protect New Yorkers. Online sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino, Global Poker, and Luckyland Slots posed a dangerous threat to New Yorkers and their financial and mental health. My office took action to stop these illegal platforms last year, and now we are holding VGW accountable for the damage done.”
Initially, New York had issued a cease-and-desist order to VGW back in June 2025, ordering the company to stop the sale of sweepstakes coins, after which Governor Hochul introduced a full ban on sweepstakes casinos in December 2025.
As part of the latest settlement, VGW will pay the amount to cover penalties, costs, and disgorgement.
