The Florida Gaming Control Commission is stepping up its illegal gambling enforcement efforts

A photo of a long row of vintage amusement machines lined up in the dim light of a vast, abandoned arcade. Engines are primarily metallic silver with faded neon signs displayed "PRIZE ZONE" and "SKEE-BALL" in a classic font, their reflective surfaces catch a bit of light. Dustpans hang suspended in the air, lit by an anklet hanging from the high ceiling, casting long shadows across the checkered tile floor. The room stretches into the distance, lost in deep shadows, creating a feeling of eerie silence and forgotten nostalgia.

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) says it has doubled down on illegal gambling, as it has seized 6,725 illegal slot machines.

Enforcement is a collective effort from 2025, with a total of $14,474,336 seized in actions against illegal casinos this year. The numbers represent a significant increase from 2024, when $7,110,613 and 1,287 illegal slot machines are confiscated.

Regulators warn that slot machines in illegal casinos are not tested or regulated by the state, and they say players are not assured of fair play, proper payouts, or basic consumer protections.

The FGCC goes on to state how many players are being exploited “by predatory owners,” with gambling machines only allowed in gaming facilities. Legal slot machines are available at eight licensed pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as some facilities operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

The number of illegal gambling machines seized is a 422% increase from last year

In the state, it is against the law to offer slot machine games or any unauthorized gambling in any unlicensed facility. The regulatory authority keeps a map of authorized locations published on its website.

Speaking about the actions taken this year, FGCC Executive Director Alana Zimmer said: “I thank Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for their continued support of the Florida Gaming Control Commission.

“Their actions strengthen Florida’s gambling laws and help protect our communities. FGCC works diligently to stop illegal gambling through statewide enforcement actions, which reflect the dedication of FGCC law enforcement officers.”

In its announcement, the commission reiterated its mission, which it said is to preserve and protect the integrity of gaming activities in Florida through fair regulation, licensing, effective criminal investigations, and enforcement. They ask people to report any concerns about illegal gambling activities or facilities in Florida online, by email, or by phone.

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The post The Florida Gaming Control Commission is stepping up its illegal gambling enforcement efforts first appeared in ReadWrite.

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