ST. CROIX — The V.I. Casino Control Commission (VICCC) is warning residents about a fraudulent social media advertisement that falsely claims Divi Carina Bay Casino in St. Croix is offering online gambling. Officials stressed that the promotion is misleading and unlawful, using both Divi Casino’s logos and the official seal of the Government of the Virgin Islands.
According to the VICCC, the ad promotes an “exclusive $1,500 welcome bonus,” claiming it is valid until September 25, 2025, as part of an “official launch” of online gambling at Divi Casino. The Commission has made clear that no such program exists. “This advertisement is completely false,” said Marvin L. Pickering, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission. He explained that the agency has been inundated with calls from concerned residents.
Divi Casino, one of the territory’s licensed operators, moved quickly to issue its own alert on Facebook, clarifying that it does not offer online gambling and has no connection to the fraudulent ad. Both the Commission and the casino have strongly advised the public not to click on the advertisement or share any personal or financial information with the site.
VICCC Chairman Marvin Pickering said he has contacted the V.I. Department of Justice, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Division of Gaming Enforcement for guidance on legal action. The goal is to remove the false advertisement, identify those responsible, and protect the public from potential harm.
The warning comes during Responsible Gaming Education Month, which emphasizes the importance of playing only with trusted and licensed operators. Pickering thanked residents for quickly reporting the fraudulent ad and reaffirmed the Commission’s ongoing vigilance. “Our goal is to ensure that patrons can play and enjoy gambling with trust and confidence,” he said.
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