Ontario Regulator Penalizes theScore for Failures in Responsible Gambling Practices
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has imposed a CA$105,000 fine on Score Media and Gaming Inc., the operator behind theScore Bet, for its failure to take appropriate action in a high-risk gambling situation. The regulatory body highlighted that the company did not uphold responsible gambling standards intended to shield players from potential financial and emotional distress. Ontario regulator fine theScore
AGCO pointed out that theScore permitted a single customer to place wagers totaling around CA$2.5 million, resulting in a loss of CA$230,000 over an eight-month period, without intervening. The regulator noted that the company should have recognized several warning signals, such as repetitive, high-stakes bets and rapidly increasing losses. These behaviors, according to AGCO, were clear indicators of possible gambling-related harm that warranted closer monitoring and intervention.
An investigation revealed that despite these warning signs, theScore failed to act promptly to evaluate the customer’s risk level or offer responsible gambling support. The regulator also criticized the operator for lacking sufficient monitoring tools and internal procedures necessary to detect excessive or problematic play early on.
In addition to the financial penalty, AGCO found that theScore violated three key components of Ontario’s Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming. These included shortcomings in policies aimed at identifying and mitigating gambling-related harm, deficiencies in behavioral monitoring systems, and inadequate staff training. The regulator underscored that all licensed operators in Ontario have a duty to actively monitor player activity and intervene proactively when signs of risk emerge.
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Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO’s CEO and Registrar, emphasized the importance of robust player protection measures to uphold trust in the regulated gambling market and prevent harm. The ongoing enforcement actions reflect a broader industry shift towards stricter compliance and responsible gaming practices in Ontario’s online gambling sector. While theScore has the right to appeal the fine through the Licence Appeal Tribunal, AGCO has assured that enhanced oversight will persist across all registered operators to ensure better adherence to responsible gaming standards. Ontario regulator theScore Ontario regulator fine theScore
