Hot Spot is At it Again

Everybody knows that the state of Utah has a mind of its own. From Mormonism to polygamist camps to otherwise conservative ideals, Utah has strong and steady morals (according to them) and even tighter laws to enforce them. The latest headlines include a controversial internet café called Hot Spot, which might sound familiar because they had been in the limelight, for the very same reasons, just a few months ago. This actually feels like déjà vu. Either way, Hot Spot’s very business blueprint is under tight scrutiny by the state of Utah, who is trying to figure out whether or not the café is acting as an online slots casino!

As we all know, the US has all but outlawed online casinos at a federal level, with several states actually explicitly saying that the activity is officially out of the question. So, Hot Spot, in fact, is very bold to offer any type of activity so closely related to online casino gambling. Actually, they have offered what they call “promotions” to their guests, who have the option to enter upon purchasing internet time. Given the chance and random nature of some other games that the online café offers, such as slots and bingo, in exchange for money, it is not too far fetched that the line between promotion and online gambling might be blurred.

Utah officials definitely frown upon this activity to begin with, especially since it had been brought up previously that the café and its patrons were engaging in some questionable activity possibly involving online casino gambling.

It looks like two strikes means you’re out in the state of Utah. Hot Spot’s license was revoked just this week.