iGaming Ontario launches self-exclusion tool
BetGuard provides a centralised way for people to opt out of online gaming.
Canada.- iGaming Ontario has announced the launch of BetGuard, a tool that enables individuals to voluntarily opt out of all Ontario-regulated online gaming platforms via a single online portal. Exclusion prevents players from accessing existing accounts, creating new accounts, or receiving marketing communications from any regulated igaming site in the Canadian province.
BetGuard offers a website where anyone 19 years of age and older can opt out of online gaming without the need to visit individual igaming websites. It allows players to exclude for a term of 6 months, 1 year, 5 years or a custom term. The tool also informs operators not to send direct marketing to individuals who have opted out.
iGaming Ontario says the market generated revenue of CA$262m in 2024-25. The Government of Ontario has invested over CA$421m since 2018 in initiatives such as gambling-related public education and awareness programmes, responsible gaming support, campaigns and research, it said.
Sarah McCarthy, chief executive officer of the Responsible Gambling Council, added: “Centralised self-exclusion is one of the most effective tools we have in gambling harm prevention. BetGuard’s launch is a meaningful step forward for Ontario and reflects the kind of cross-sector collaboration that makes regulated markets work for players and communities.”
Paul Burns, president and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, commented: “The Canadian Gaming Association welcomes the introduction of BetGuard, recognising it as an integral component of Ontario’s comprehensive player protection framework. Our members are committed to implementing this tool in their day-to-day operations, ensuring that any player who chooses to take a break can do so instantly and completely. This is regulated gaming delivering on its promise.”
