It appears thatOntario gambling sites operators are now adapting to the latest regulations and guidelines related to marketing and gambling addiction set forth by the province's Alcohol and Gaming Commission.
The AGCO has officially published the latest iGaming regulations for Ontario and has reached out to operators via email. The majority of these regulations are focused on Standard 2.03, addressing the need to prevent minors and individuals with gambling issues from engaging with the province's online gaming options. Additionally, the AGCO has mandated tighter controls on the involvement of professional athletes in advertisements unless they're promoting responsible gaming initiatives. AGCO press release .
The regulations take hold on Feb. 28.
The relevant standard states: 'Advertising, marketing communications, and promotional materials must not target high-risk individuals, minors, or those who have self-excluded from gambling. It should solely be directed away from underage players and not be communicated to those identified as high-risk. (This also applies to Gaming-Related Suppliers).' The new regulations also emphasize a ban on social media influencers who appeal to underage viewers, along with restrictions on professional athletes engaging in commercials unrelated to responsible gambling.
'The ads should not use cartoon characters, symbols, public figures, or entertainers who are likely to attract a younger audience,' according to the updated regulations. 'Additionally, currently active or retired athletes can only be featured in promotions that specifically advocate for responsible gambling practices, if they have any agreement with an operator or supplier in this context.'
Additionally,Ontario casino apps Operators are required to take further precautions to ensure that any advertising within the province does not target individuals who may be at risk of gambling problems, as stated in rule 8 of standard 2.03: 'Appropriate measures must be implemented to restrict marketing communications directed towards recognized high-risk players.'
What are the changes in the iGaming regulations for Ontario?
The most significant change introduced by the AGCO revolves around the specific wording regarding social media influencers who have the potential to appeal to younger audiences. This emphasizes the necessity to consider how likely it is for such advertising subjects to resonate with individuals under the legal gaming age of 19 in Ontario, which includes several online gaming options.Ontario online slots , table games and more.
'Even though the AGCO acknowledges that public interests and appeal can vary, it encourages operators to use their discretion in determining whether certain individuals could be appealing to minors,' states the AGCO. 'They expect operators to undertake a thorough evaluation, supported by defined criteria for potential appeal, along with necessary records and controls.'
The AGCO’s latest guidelines did not specify a follower count that qualifies someone as a 'social media influencer.' However, the commission advises iGaming and sports betting operators to be careful in their choice of advertising figures.Ontario sports betting 'While the AGCO understands the demand for a detailed definition, including a minimum follower count, operators should focus their assessment on an individual’s appeal to minors,' the AGCO report indicates. 'They recognize the iGaming landscape is rapidly changing, just like operators' marketing and advertising approaches. Operators are thus encouraged to adopt a cautious stance and evaluate the risks of promoting certain individuals.'
Withdrawals processed on the same day. Mobile application available. Over 2,000 casino games to choose from. Licensed and reliable service with 24/7 customer support.
Additionally, the AGCO has prohibited the involvement of professional athletes from leagues such as the NHL, NBA, MLB, NFL, CFL, MLS, Premier League, or the Olympics in promoting iGaming or sports betting options with few exceptions for responsible gambling advocacy.
'To clarify, despite prohibiting the use of role models, social media influencers, celebrities, or entertainers who may appeal to younger audiences, athletes fitting these categories can still be used in advertising strictly to promote responsible gambling,' the AGCO’s report details.Ontario sports betting apps Banned practices under requirement 4 include portraying gambling as enjoyable or enticing, or creating advertisements that serve as tutorials on how to gamble. Any promotional content featuring professional athletes must center entirely around responsible gaming.
Lastly, under requirement 8, all Ontario iGaming and sports betting operators, including new online casinos, are mandated to restrict marketing efforts targeted at high-risk players. Operators in Ontario's regulated market are required to implement a responsible gaming plan with a clear action strategy going forward.
New online casino games in Ontario are engaging and full of fun features.
A BetMGM player has recently won a record-breaking jackpot.
