Ontario Regulator Urges Media Platforms to Cease Advertising for Unlicensed Gambling Operators
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has formally requested that over a dozen media platforms stop carrying advertisements for unregulated gambling sites, citing growing concerns over player safety and market integrity.
AGCO Targets Bodog’s Advertising Practices
The AGCO’s action follows a wave of advertising by offshore operator Bodog, which is managed by Il Nido Inc. While Bodog restricts users in Quebec and Nova Scotia, it continues to allow access for Ontarians. At the same time, it heavily promotes its services through traditional and digital media targeting the province.
According to the AGCO, this type of promotion bypasses the province’s regulatory framework. Under the Gaming Control Act, 1992, any operator offering gambling services in Ontario must register with the AGCO and sign an operating agreement with iGaming Ontario. These measures ensure that operators meet strict standards for fairness, data privacy, anti-money laundering, and player protection.
Media Exposure Adds Legitimacy to High-Risk Operators
By accepting ads from offshore gambling companies, media outlets risk legitimizing operators that do not follow Ontario’s rules. This not only creates confusion among players but also exposes them to sites that lack the required oversight.
Consequently, the AGCO is asking media companies to remove such advertising. The regulator argues that this step would help reduce the risks these platforms pose and support the long-term sustainability of the licensed iGaming system.
Continued Enforcement Efforts
Dr. Karin Schnarr, Chief Executive Officer and Registrar at AGCO, reaffirmed the regulator’s stance:
“The AGCO is committed to protecting Ontario players and ensuring they have the safest experience by playing on regulated igaming sites. By refusing to carry advertising from unregulated and high-risk operators like Bodog, media organizations can exemplify social responsibility and play an important role in protecting Ontarians and supporting Ontario’s regulated market.”
The AGCO has indicated it will maintain its collaborative efforts with domestic and international partners to limit the influence of unlicensed gambling websites. The regulator sees this as a necessary step to protect players and reinforce the standards of Ontario’s legal gambling ecosystem.