Summary
- AGCO has targeted illegal gambling machines.
- These machines are marketed as "games of skill," yet the regulator does not agree.
- The regulatory agency has been taking action against illegal gambling operators.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has ramped up its crackdown on illegal gambling activities, targeting both online and in-person operations. In a recent enforcement action, the AGCO focused on unlicensed gaming machines found in physical locations.
AGCO goes after unlicensed gaming machines in Ontario
The regulator announced that several venues have had their lottery seller registrations revoked or are in the process of having their licenses revoked due to the presence of unlicensed electronic gaming machines, as concluded by the AGCO. These slot machines, identified under the Prime Slot brand, were the focus of a detailed statement issued by the regulator. Addressing the latest regulatory action, AGCO Chief Executive Officer and Registrar, Dr. Karin Schnarr, stated, Unapproved gambling machines should not be located in convenience stores or other places accessible to children and youth. The AGCO emphasized that any gambling machine offered in Ontario must adhere to strict criteria to ensure player safety, integrity, and the protection of minors and vulnerable populations. These protections are not provided by unlicensed operators and gambling products, the regulator clarified. The AGCO also addressed the practice of some manufacturers and venues promoting their machines as games of skill, a claim the watchdog rejects as valid. This argument has been used to justify placing gambling machines in various locations, such as convenience stores. The AGCO has committed to continuing its efforts against venues offering what it considers unlicensed gambling products.
The regulator has been acting against the unlicensed sector
Currently, the companies affected by this procedure have 15 days to appeal to the License Appeal Tribunal in an attempt to reverse the watchdog’s decision. The AGCO is committed to ensuring the gambling market remains regulated and its consumers protected. In a recent announcement, the watchdog cautioned advertisers against allowing advertisements for offshore gambling websites and products in the press and media, as it has already reviewed cases where this has occurred.
