.svg)
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario issued a reminder to all licensed land-based casinos and charitable gaming operators. The regulator addressed these operators about their promotional practices in the province.
AGCO focused on offers advertised as “free play” promotions. All such offers must comply with Standard 2.2.2 of the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming.
This reminder affects all licensed operators in Ontario’s gaming sector. AGCO oversees both land-based casinos and charitable gaming operations under provincial regulation.
The regulator has jurisdiction over promotional practices across these licensed venues. Operators must follow established standards for advertising and player inducements.
The regulator identified issues with misleading “free play” advertising in the market. These promotions can affect responsible gambling efforts by encouraging increased player spending.
Standard 2.2.2 requires that players shouldn’t need to risk or spend their own money to access any bonus described as “free.” Promotions that fail this condition are considered misleading under current regulations.
AGCO stated that misleading advertising could damage public trust in the industry. It can also contribute to financial harm for players who don’t understand the actual terms.
This reminder follows recent changes to AGCO’s responsible gambling training requirements. The regulator has been increasing oversight across Ontario’s gaming sector.
The commission emphasised that non-compliant promotions may be subject to regulatory action. This includes potential financial penalties for violations.
Any “free play” offer that requires players to risk their own money first violates the standard. An example would be reimbursing losses only after players gamble with their own funds.
Such offers are misleading despite being marketed as free. They don’t meet the genuine “free play” requirement under Standard 2.2.2.
AGCO provided clear guidance on what constitutes genuine free play. Players must access bonuses without financial risk or spending requirements.
The regulator considers these promotions subject to regulatory action. Violations can result in enforcement measures against the operator.
Operators must ensure promotional materials accurately reflect the terms. Misleading descriptions can trigger regulatory review and potential penalties.
Operators who violate Standard 2.2.2 may face penalties or further enforcement actions. AGCO has demonstrated willingness to impose financial penalties for regulatory violations.
Casino Days received a CA$54,000 fine earlier this year for offering a deceptive bonus to Ontario players. This demonstrates AGCO’s enforcement approach for non-compliant promotions.
The regulator also warned media outlets against promoting unlicensed gambling platforms. This reinforces AGCO’s position on advertising integrity and regulatory compliance.
AGCO encouraged operators to review all marketing materials for compliance with standards. This proactive approach helps identify potential violations before enforcement action.
The regulator continues monitoring oversight in Ontario’s gaming sector. These efforts focus on maintaining regulatory standards and protecting player interests.
Operators must ensure their promotional materials meet the genuine “free play” requirements. Non-compliance could result in regulatory action and financial penalties.
