AGCO advises advertisers to avoid partnering with offshore gambling platforms.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) announced on its website that it has contacted numerous traditional and digital media platforms. The regulator has requested that these companies stop advertising for gambling operators that are not licensed in Ontario but may be targeting local residents.

The watchdog is making a substantial effort to restrict access to offshore gambling sites. Previously allowed in Ontario due to a lack of a regulated gambling market, most of these websites have now opted to become licensed and operate within local regulations. Nevertheless, some sites may continue to employ outdated tactics, such as saturating media channels with advertisements, to attract potential customers interested in online casinos or sports betting. The AGCO specifically pointed out Bodog, accusing the company of violating the Gaming Control Act of 1992. Dr. Karin Schnarr, the Chief Executive Officer and Registrar at the regulatory body, emphasized that the existing regulated iGaming market should be the sole option for Ontario players. She stated, The AGCO is dedicated to safeguarding Ontario players, ensuring they have the safest experience by participating on regulated iGaming sites. By declining advertisements from unregulated and high-risk operators like Bodog, media organizations can demonstrate social responsibility, play a vital role in protecting Ontarians, and support Ontario’s regulated market. The AGCO mentioned that Bodog continues to target Ontario players through advertising and by allowing them to join their platform. While Bodog has already taken measures to limit access from Nova Scotia and Quebec, the regulator is now urging the company to apply the same restrictions in Ontario.

In the meantime, AGCO has emphasized that advertisers are responsible for ensuring they do not promote unregulated websites. The regulator also stated that since the market became regulated in 2022, operators must adhere to strict conduct rules and player protection measures—standards that may not apply to offshore brands outside of AGCO’s jurisdiction. Recently, AGCO fined three land-based casinos owned by Great Canadian Entertainment, alleging that minors were allowed onto the gaming floors and, in some instances, to play games, resulting in a CA$151,000 fine.