Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Gambling should be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to a movie or dining out. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. When you gamble, you should only spend money you can afford to lose, and you should set realistic expectations about outcomes.
We are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and supporting the well-being of all players in Canada.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Canada is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older, or the legal age in your province or territory, whichever is greater. Some provinces have set the minimum age at 19.
All reputable gambling sites require age verification before allowing access to gaming platforms. If you are under the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction, please do not attempt to register or gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses: Returning to gamble to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Keeping your gambling activity secret from family or friends
- Loss of control: Gambling more than you intended or for longer than planned
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Financial strain: Borrowing money to gamble or gambling with money meant for bills or necessities
- Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next gambling session
- Increased tolerance: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Mood changes: Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative feelings
- Failed attempts to quit: Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite trying
- Relationship conflicts: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Resources
Most online gambling platforms offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic session duration limits to help manage your time
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
We encourage you to use these tools proactively, even if you don't currently feel you have a problem. They are designed to keep gambling fun and safe.
Support Organizations in Canada & Internationally
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Canadian Resources
- Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org – Leading Canadian organization dedicated to reducing gambling-related harms
- National Problem Gambling Services (Canada) – Provides confidential counseling and support services across Canada
International Resources
- UK: GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk – Free counseling and support for problem gambling
- UK: GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free counseling and treatment referrals
- USA: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org – Information and referral services
If You Need Help
If you or someone close to you is experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out for support immediately. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and professional help is available.
You are not alone. Confidential support is available 24/7 through the organizations listed above. Taking the first step toward help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.