This month, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) made headlines,fined PointsBet Canada $150,000 after concerns were raised regarding its compliance with Ontario's responsible gambling regulations.
The sanctions were linked to multiple alleged breaches of the Registrar's Standards for Internet Gaming, particularly the failure to adequately intervene and assist a player who may have been facing gambling-related issues. Notably, this player incurred losses exceeding $500,000 within a span of three months.
Experts involved in Ontario's iGaming oversight have consistently emphasized that safeguarding players is a fundamental priority. While recovering the significant revenue lost to unregulated markets was crucial, providing support to players who may need to regain control over their gambling behaviors was another essential goal.
Province Pursues a ‘Centralized Self-Exclusion Strategy’
In this context, it was announced this week that iGaming Ontario, the division of AGCO responsible for oversight, is seeking proposals in early 2024 for a all-encompassing self-exclusion system. This initiative aims to allow players to collectively exclude themselves from all Ontario-licensed iGaming operators through a single, streamlined registration process, according to their announcement.Ontario online casinos The winning contractor will be charged with creating and deploying a unified system that works in harmony with all operators' platforms, including Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation's online gaming services. This system will facilitate the registration, renewal, and reinstatement of players' self-exclusion requests.
iGO stated that the fundamental principles of this initiative will focus on offering players various options that support their decision to take a break from gambling. The goal is to establish a program that is understanding and supportive, providing clear and detailed information to ensure that players and providers are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities. Protecting the confidentiality of player data is also critical, and strong safeguards must be in place, backed by secure and adaptable technology. Additionally, the systems and processes need to be feasible for operators to adopt.
Companies that wish to participate are invited to sign up on iGaming Ontario’s MERX platform in early 2024 to examine the Request for Proposals (RFP) and engage in the bidding process. Ontario has recently introduced legally regulated online casinos, capturing a significant market share.Ontario casino apps Other provinces have implemented similar self-exclusion initiatives. For instance, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation announced enhancements to identification protocols for individuals enrolled in its self-exclusion program last May. The province offers a confidential opportunity for individuals to voluntarily take a break from both physical gambling venues and online gambling options, such as their PlayNow.com service.
Participants in the Game Break program are effectively choosing to self-exclude. The main aim is to empower individuals to regain control by opting for extended breaks from gambling, especially if it's causing them financial distress or straining personal relationships, or simply if they wish to modify their gambling behaviors.Ontario sports betting in April 2022.
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Fromdeereplanet.com
