AGCO warns media over unregulated gambling advertisements
Regulator calls on broadcasters and platforms to act responsibly.
Key Points
- The AGCO has urged media outlets to stop promoting unregulated gambling sites such as Bodog, which are appealing to Ontario residents without proper authorisation
- Media organisations are being asked to support Ontario’s regulated market by ceasing adverts for operators not licensed under provincial law
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has contacted more than a dozen media organisations, both traditional and digital, requesting they stop carrying advertisements for unregulated gambling operators appealing to people in Ontario.
The regulator named Bodog, operated by Il Nido Inc., as one such offshore site. Despite restricting access in Quebec and Nova Scotia, Bodog remains accessible in Ontario and advertises on platforms aimed at Ontarians.
The AGCO confirmed Bodog is not registered in Ontario and does not have an operating agreement with iGaming Ontario, as required under the Gaming Control Act, 1992.
Operators in Ontario’s regulated igaming market must meet detailed requirements covering player protection, anti-money laundering measures, game integrity and information security. The AGCO stated that promoting unregulated operators undermines these safeguards and can mislead consumers.
The AGCO continues to work with partners in Ontario and internationally to address illegal gambling activity and protect the public interest.
Good to know: To legally operate in Ontario, gambling providers must register with the AGCO and have an agreement with iGaming Ontario
Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO CEO and Registrar, stated: “The AGCO is committed to protecting Ontario players and ensuring they have the safest experience by playing on regulated igaming sites.
“By refusing to carry advertising from unregulated and high-risk operators like Bodog, media organisations can exemplify social responsibility and play an important role in protecting Ontarians and supporting Ontario’s regulated market.”
This action follows a recent AGCO settlement with Woodbine Entertainment, after an investigation into the euthanisation of 10 racehorses in late 2024 revealed significant lapses in track maintenance and staff training.
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