The Ontario gaming regulatory body, AGCO, has levied a substantial financial penalty of $150,000 CAD (equivalent to roughly $108,600 USD) against PointsBet, a licensed internet gaming provider. This sanction follows an inquiry that uncovered multiple violations of Ontario’s regulations pertaining to responsible gaming.

Among the transgressions, PointsBet neglected to furnish sufficient assistance to a participant exhibiting indicators of problematic gaming behavior. The provider also disregarded the obligatory 24-hour waiting period for users who had recently deactivated their deposit restrictions. Furthermore, PointsBet was discovered to have disseminated promotional content related to wagering activities without securing unambiguous consent from the intended recipient.

The AGCO highlighted that these punitive measures emphasize the gravity of PointsBet’s inability to adhere to its own protocols intended to safeguard players. These protocols encompass provisions for harm mitigation, prompt intervention and assistance for at-risk individuals, and comprehensive training on responsible gaming practices for personnel. The AGCO reiterated its dedication to maintaining global benchmarks for player protection, encompassing prevention, education, early detection, and continuous support.

This measure follows a comparable enforcement action taken by the AGCO in August 2023, wherein Apollo Entertainment was penalized $100,000 CAD for failing to comply with Ontario’s responsible gaming stipulations. Apollo faced allegations of overlooking interventions for individuals displaying signs of problematic gaming, insufficiently implementing wagering limit mechanisms and self-exclusion options, and exhibiting a deficiency in staff comprehension regarding responsible gaming protocols.

These recent actions are indicative of a broader pattern of heightened oversight and enforcement by the AGCO, as it persists in issuing fines…

A trio of internet wagering businesses recently faced consequences. LeoVegas, Bunchberry Limited, and Mobile Incorporated Limited received penalties due to oversight in their slot game offerings. It appears they were discovered providing games lacking proper verification, with some even originating from unregistered sources. This reflects poorly on these organizations!