MGM Osaka warns over fake casino sites claiming affiliation
Osaka Prefecture and the developers behind MGM Osaka, Japan’s first integrated resort (IR) with a casino, have warned the public against fraudulent websites falsely claiming links to the project, which is scheduled to open in Osaka in 2030.
The warning follows the discovery of websites using the MGM Osaka name and branding without authorisation. According to reports by the Japanese local media outlet, Osaka Prefecture and MGM Osaka issued a joint warning stating that the websites have no connection to the integrated resort project.
“MGM Osaka does not provide, promote, or advertise online casinos in any way,” the parties said in the statement, as reported by local media.
MGM Osaka is being developed through a partnership involving Japanese financial services group ORIX Corporation and the Japanese subsidiary of US casino operator MGM Resorts International. Construction of the resort is currently underway, with the casino resort expected to open in the autumn of 2030.
Official warning issued by MGM Osaka
In a separate notice published on its official website, MGM Osaka confirmed that it had identified fraudulent websites using the company’s name without permission.
“We have currently confirmed the existence of fraudulent websites that use the company name of MGM Osaka Corporation without authorisation,” the company said.
The operator stressed that the websites have “absolutely no relationship” with MGM Osaka and are neither operated nor endorsed by the company.
“As these fraudulent websites may be online casino websites, please exercise extreme caution and do not enter or register personal information, credit card information, or other details,” the notice stated.
The company also reminded users that online casino gambling remains illegal in Japan.
“In Japan, connecting to online casinos and engaging in gambling, as well as advertising or promoting such activities, is illegal,” MGM Osaka said.
The operator urged anyone who encounters suspicious activity or becomes a victim of fraud to contact police or relevant authorities immediately. It also clarified that its only official website is mgmosaka.co.jp.
In a separate warning, MGM Osaka said it had received reports of individuals impersonating company executives and employees through social media and other channels to conduct fraudulent business activities and demand money.
“Neither our company nor our executives and employees will, under any circumstances, use social media or similar means to solicit outsourcing contracts or request money,” the company said.
Fake sites direct users to online casinos
The websites prominently display language intended to create the impression that they are connected to the future Osaka integrated resort, as per local media.
The sites include phrases such as “We are MGM Osaka” and “Embodying the spirit of Osaka”, while presenting themselves as legitimate casino platforms.
The local media reported that the websites claim to be licensed in Curaçao, a Dutch territory known for issuing online gambling licences. Users who proceed through registration pages are reportedly redirected to gambling platforms featuring games such as baccarat.
An official from the Osaka Prefectural Police told the newspaper that the websites may be attempting to convince Japanese users that online gambling through the platforms is legal.
The police warned that “it is illegal to connect to it from Japan and gamble”.
Authorities also cautioned that visiting the websites could lead users to overseas online casino operators, which remain prohibited under Japanese law.
Investigation finds multiple websites
Industry publication CasinoBeats reported finding several similar websites claiming affiliation with MGM Osaka through searches using common Japanese keywords.
As per the report, the domains incorporated terms such as “MGM”, “casino”, “Osaka”, “Japan” and “Tokyo”. The publication reported that the websites featured gambling-themed imagery and text that appeared to be AI-generated.
It also found that the sites promoted access to between 2,000 and 2,500 casino games and advertised payment methods including Japanese yen, Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether’s USDT stablecoin. Some sites also claimed to provide Japanese-language customer support during peak periods.
The publication noted that one landing page described itself as MGM Osaka and stated: “Fueled by the vibrant spirit of Osaka, we aim to provide an exciting gaming experience for a diverse range of players.”
MGM Osaka has rejected any association with the websites, stating that they are “using the name of MGM Osaka without permission”.
“Please note that these websites are not affiliated with Osaka IR or MGM Osaka in any way,” the company said.
Wider debate over integrated resorts continues
The incident comes as Japan continues to pursue its integrated resort policy. The national government has expressed its intention to see two additional prefectures develop IR projects alongside Osaka.
However, many prefectural governors have distanced themselves from integrated resort proposals, while anti-gambling groups have argued that casinos could lead to higher levels of gambling-related crime.
One notable exception is Aichi Prefecture, where officials are seeking development partners for a proposed integrated resort near the region’s busiest airport. Governor Hideaki Omura has previously said the project could help transform Aichi into an “international tourism hub”.
Meanwhile, business leaders in Osaka have also voiced support for the integrated resort project, saying it would help establish the city as a major entertainment destination.
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