Responsible Gaming
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, never a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While most people gamble responsibly, we recognize that for some individuals, gambling can become a serious issue. Please read the information below to help keep your play safe and enjoyable.
Age Verification
You must be of legal gambling age to participate in any betting activity. In Canada, the legal age is 18 or 19 years old depending on your province or territory (for example, 19 in British Columbia, Ontario, and most of Canada; 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec). It is illegal for anyone under the legal age to gamble. We strongly encourage parents and guardians to monitor internet use and use filtering software to prevent underage access.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you care about, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses – returning to try to win back money you have lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
- Gambling with money meant for bills, rent, or essentials
- Lying about time or money spent gambling
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities because of gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable betting sites provide tools to help you stay in control. We recommend using the following features where available:
- Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month
- Loss limits – cap the amount you are willing to lose within a set period
- Reality checks – receive pop-up reminders of how long you have been playing
- Self-exclusion – temporarily or permanently block access to your account
Taking breaks, setting time limits, and treating gambling as a paid form of entertainment can also help prevent harmful behaviour.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help, the following organizations offer free, confidential support and advice:
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – provides resources and help for Canadians
- UK: GamCare – the leading provider of information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling problems
- UK: GamStop – free self-exclusion scheme for UK online gambling
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – 24/7 free support for Australians
- USA: National Council on Problem Gambling – helpline and resources for US residents
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung – German federal health education agency with gambling addiction support
- Other regions: Please consult your local responsible gambling authority or national helpline for appropriate support.
Seek Help Now
If you think you may have a gambling problem, do not wait. Reach out to one of the organizations above or speak with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional. Help is available, free, and confidential. Taking the first step is the most important one.