Regulated vs offshore gambling sites
Regulated sites are the safest way to enjoy gambling online in Ontario. It takes at least 90 days for operators to satisfy the AGCO's checks and strike an Operating Agreement with iGO. iGO then tracks the casinos, sportsbooks, and poker sites, including those we recommend. This ensures they follow the rules which protect players and guarantee fair gaming.
Here's what regulated gambling sites offer:
- Respected owners with a strong reputation in the gambling industry
- Games and markets from established software developers with proven track records
- Secure Hash Algorithm 3 (SHA-3) prevents tampering with Random Number Generators (RNGs)
- Regular auditing by the likes of eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and Gaming Labs International
- SSL and hybrid encryption, plus two-factor authentication (2FA), securing data and funds
- Safe deposits and withdrawals via trusted payment providers such as Interac and Visa
- Accurate and speedy payouts when you win games or place the right wager
- Customer support committed to handling requests accurately and efficiently
- Measures to prevent access by minors and anyone engaged in criminal activity
- Responsible gambling resources to help prevent and tackle problematic play and betting
Offshore gambling sites also exist. They claim to offer safe, fair gambling to Ontario players. But they aren't registered with the AGCO or iGO, so don't have to follow rules like regulated sites. This puts you, your money, and your data at risk.
Below are some dangers of playing at unregulated casinos, sportsbooks, and poker sites:
? Games and markets tampered with to prevent you from winning
? Inaccurate and slow payouts when you win games or place the right wager
? Deposits and withdrawals only available via unrecognized payment providers
? Winnings are withheld when you make a legitimate withdrawal request
? Insufficient security measures leave data and funds accessible to fraudsters
? Limited or no customer support if you need to make inquiries
? No responsible gambling resources to help anyone struggling
? No option to contact a regulatory body if you encounter any issues
Why you should play at regulated online casinos
Regulated online casinos in Ontario offer fun, safe gambling experiences. The AGCO and iGO constantly check on them to verify they operate properly.
This includes ensuring they follow the guarantees set out above. Any gambling sites flouting rules or putting players at risk face removal from the market.
Support is available for anyone encountering problems while playing at regulated gambling sites. You can access this via the AGCO's Player Support & Information guide.
How to know you’re playing at regulated gambling sites in Ontario
Every online casino, sportsbook, and poker site regulated in ON features the iGaming Ontario logo. You'll find it, as shown here, in the top left or at the bottom of the site's homepage.
Tapping the logo takes you to the iGaming Ontario website, where lists of licensed gambling sites are available. You'll see iGO approves all our shortlisted Ontario gambling sites. It's our mission to ensure you can gamble online in a safe, secure environment.