Gambling Should Stay Fun
Online gambling is a form of entertainment, and for the vast majority of players it stays that way. But for some, gambling can become a problem — causing financial stress, strained relationships, and harm to mental health. If gambling is no longer enjoyable, or if you’re spending more than you can afford, help is available. Ontario’s regulated market requires every AGCO-licensed operator to provide the tools and safeguards described below.
Get Help Now
Free, confidential support for problem gambling, available 24/7 by phone, chat, or email. ConnexOntario connects you with local treatment services across the province.
Phone: 1-866-531-2600
Operated by ConnexOntario, the helpline provides immediate support and referrals to local counselling and treatment programmes.
Phone: 1-888-230-3505
A national organization dedicated to problem gambling prevention. Offers resources, research, and the GameSense programme used at many Ontario gambling venues.
Self-Exclusion
If you feel you need to stop gambling, self-exclusion is a formal commitment to stay away from gambling activities for a set period. In Ontario’s regulated market:
- Every AGCO-licensed operator is required to offer self-exclusion options
- You can self-exclude from individual operators through their platforms
- The AGCO is working toward a centralized self-exclusion system that would allow you to exclude from all regulated sites through a single registration
- Self-exclusion periods typically range from 6 months to 5 years, depending on the operator
During a self-exclusion period, the operator must close your account, prevent you from opening a new one, and stop sending you marketing communications.
Tools Available at Every Licensed Operator
All AGCO-regulated operators in Ontario are required to offer the following responsible gambling tools, whether you play at an online casino or a sportsbook:
- Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can deposit
- Loss limits: Cap the amount you can lose over a set period
- Session time limits: Set alerts or automatic session ends after a specified duration
- Reality checks: Regular notifications showing how long you’ve been playing and how much you’ve wagered
- Transaction history: Full access to your deposit, withdrawal, and wagering history
- Self-exclusion: The ability to block yourself from the platform for a set period
Signs of Problem Gambling
Consider seeking help if you recognize any of the following patterns:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you intended
- Chasing losses — increasing bets to try to win back money you’ve lost
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or work because of gambling
- Lying to others about the extent of your gambling
If any of these apply to you or someone you know, please contact ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600 or visit connexontario.ca.
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