AGCO revises its online casino gaming regulatory framework

In order to better regulate online casino gaming, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has made certain essential changes to its regulatory framework.

The revisions to the Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming have been implemented in order to create a secure and transparent framework for marketing and promotional activities. There will be an emphasis on preventing underage gambling and the use of athletes to endorse gaming-related promotional campaigns.

According to the AGCO, this will assist certified market actors in planning promotional campaigns while abiding by applicable legislation.

As per the online Canadian gaming news, the revised version was implemented on February 28, 2024. This includes restrictions on the use of well-known individuals, cartoon characters, and social media influencers, all of whom have the potential to negatively influence the online gaming experiences of young people. Operators have been urged to stop using current or former athletes affiliated with gambling enterprises. Nevertheless, advertisements might use athletes to promote responsible gambling (RG) practices. According to AGCO, there is still room for improvement in terms of responsible gambling promotion.

In 2023, the AGCO fined three internet gaming firms for not following the laws. The entities involved were LeoVegas, Bunchberry, and Mobile Incorporated. The charges levied against them failed to adhere to the regulations established by the AGCO Registrar in Ontario. Mobile Incorporated was also accused of releasing games from the armory of uncertified vendors.

The iGaming operator based in Malta was fined $30,000. In contrast, LeoVegas, which MGM Resorts owns, was penalized $25,000. The order was for Bunchberry to pay the AGCO $15,000.

The operators were imposed penalties as a result of modifications to online gambling regulations that the AGCO implemented in 2022.