Player Safety in Ontario: A Critical Step Forward

As the North American iGaming industry continues to evolve, with Alberta recently announcing that they are set to become Canada's second open online gambling market, and regulatory bodies such as the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (ACGO) stepping up to ensure that the industry remains both fair and safe for players.  

 

Ontario is, of course, the frontrunner in this regulatory evolution, setting a precedent that others, such as Alberta, are likely to follow as more provinces legalise online gambling. Recent updates to regulations highlight a strong emphasis on player safety and enhanced interaction with players, signaling a significant shift towards improving responsible gambling practices in North America. 

 

A Commitment to Player Safety 

 

To effectively safeguard players, operators in Ontario should focus on tracking critical behaviours and interactions. This involves proactive monitoring and interventions to prevent players from falling into harmful gambling patterns. 

 

Tracking Key Player Interactions 

 

1. Cancelled Withdrawals: Tracking cancelled withdrawals can help identify players who might be struggling with control over their gambling activities. Operators should be vigilant about players repeatedly cancelling withdrawals, as this can be an indicator of problematic gambling behaviour. 

2. Failed Deposits: Monitoring failed deposit attempts is crucial. Players who frequently attempt and fail to deposit funds might be experiencing financial difficulties or compulsive gambling tendencies. Identifying these patterns early allows operators to intervene before the situation worsens. 

3. Visits to MyPlayBreak: The MyPlayBreak program allows players to take voluntary breaks from gambling. Tracking visits to this feature can provide insights into a player's self-regulation attempts and overall mental well-being. Frequent usage may suggest that a player is struggling to maintain control over their gambling habits. 

4. Net Wins: Keeping an eye on a player's net wins over time is essential. Significant fluctuations can indicate risky behaviour. Consistently high net wins might suggest problem gambling, while frequent losses could point to financial issues. 

5. Return from Break: Monitoring players' behaviour after they return from a self-imposed break is vital. It’s important to ensure that players do not immediately resume harmful gambling patterns. Operators should implement follow-up checks to support players in maintaining healthy gambling habits. 

 

Enhancements to Help Maintain Player Safety 

 

Server-Side to Client-Side Messaging 

One of the significant advancements in player interaction is the implementation of server-side to client-side messaging. This system is designed to display notifications or dialogs to players based on their gaming behavior. For example: 

• Playing to Zero: If a player exhausts their balance to zero, a dialog can appear to remind them of responsible gaming practices or offer support resources. 

• Repeated Visits to Limits Setting Page: If a player frequently visits the limits setting page without making changes, a notification can prompt them to set limits to manage their gaming activity better. 

These messages serve as gentle reminders and interventions, helping players make informed decisions and promoting a healthier gaming experience. 

 

Inbox for Notifications 

Creating an inbox for notifications within the app or website can significantly enhance communication between operators and players. This inbox can be used to: 

• Distribute Regulation Information: Keep players informed about new or updated regulations, ensuring they are aware of the rules governing their gaming activities. 

• Address Concerning Behavior: Notify players of any concerning behavior patterns, such as excessive spending or time spent, and offer resources or support to address these issues. 

A dedicated inbox ensures that important messages are not overlooked and that players have easy access to crucial information to keep their habits under control. 

 

Player Dashboard 

Inspired by examples from the UK iGaming industry, such as Paddy Power, Ontario-based operators are encouraged to develop comprehensive player dashboards within their offerings. These dashboards provide players with a clear overview of their gaming activities, including: 

• Net Wins and Losses: Displaying the net wins and losses over a specified period helps players keep track of their spending and earnings, promoting transparency and self-awareness. 

• Gaming History: Detailed records of all gaming activities, including bets placed, games played, and time spent on the platform. 

• Responsible Gaming Tools: Easy access to responsible gaming tools such as self-exclusion options, limit setting, and links to support organisations. 

A well-designed player dashboard empowers players with the information they need to make responsible gaming choices and manage their activities effectively. 

 

A Responsible Future 

 

To maintain a responsible future, iGaming operators and developers must stay informed about regulatory changes and proactively integrate relevant features into their platforms. Embracing these advancements not only ensures regulatory compliance but also enhances player trust and satisfaction. 

As Ontario continues to lead the way in iGaming regulation, it sets a benchmark for other provinces to follow. By tracking key player interactions, adopting innovative communication strategies, and providing essential tools to ensure player safety, Ontario is paving the path toward a more responsible, player-centric iGaming industry.