Belgium’s Parliament Has Been Advised to Raise the Gambling Age to 21

By Daniela Rose

The Flemish Centre of Addiction, known as VAD, has recommended to the Belgian Parliament, or Kamer, to raise the minimum age for engaging in any gambling activities from 18 to 21. VAD advocates revisiting the prevailing age limits in Europe, which range from 18 to 21 but consistently remain at 18 in Belgium. The objective of this proposal is to safeguard citizens from the harmful consequences of addiction.

This development comes as a setback for young adults and the best online casinos, where various games like slots, jackpot games, crash games, and table games like blackjack, poker, and roulette have been legally accessible to 18, 19, and 20-year-olds up to this point.

This recommendation follows the Belgian Parliament’s approval of the Royal Decree, which mandates a federal ban on gambling advertising across all media platforms, effective July 1st, 2023. The Royal Decree imposes stringent limitations on gambling advertising and any promotional content by information society services.

Further measures are being considered to promote responsible gambling at top-rated online casinos, including a proposed ban on stadium advertising starting in 2025. This implies that gambling companies will no longer be permitted to sponsor professional sports clubs and football teams. Additionally, the decree specifies that sponsorship expenses for gambling companies will lose their tax-deductible status.

Background On the Gambling Age Limit in Belgium

Since its introduction in 2022, the Royal Decree has stirred significant debate within the Belgian sports betting sphere, where sponsorship contracts with gambling companies play a pivotal role. The primary argument contends that a complete prohibition on advertising related to sports betting may not effectively shield socially vulnerable individuals from gambling addiction. On a positive note, however, such a ban is anticipated to contribute to the elimination of unauthorized operators. The future of the Royal Decree hangs in the balance as it awaits the decision of the Council of State.

When it comes to entering land-based casinos, Belgium has continuously enforced a minimum age limit of 21 years old since 2018, however, as part of the harmonization regulations that were implemented by changes to the Royal Decree on Gambling, a new age limit was established for betting on sports, bingo establishments, and arcades.

On January 1st, 2022, the Harmonization Royal Decree was officially published in the Belgian State Gazette. While initially intended to harmonize various royal decrees related to mediation in the financial and insurance sectors, this decree extends its influence to align the legal conditions of intermediaries in banking, investment services, consumer and mortgage credit, and insurance.

Additional amendments introduced in the 2022 Royal Decree include the implementation of a $/€200 weekly deposit cap for games of chance, coupled with regular mandatory bank checks. Players can potentially restore their limit to $/€500 by presenting their player token to the BGC for processing. The Commission clarifies that upon receiving an online casino’s request to increase a player’s stake limit, the National Bank of Belgium will confirm the possibility of lifting the deposit limits within three days. Although the Royal Decree was officially published in the Official Gazette on July 20th, its effectiveness is slated for three months later. Once in effect, all regulated Belgian online casinos and sportsbooks must promptly adhere to the revised play limit.

As the official regulator of the gaming industry in Belgium, the Gaming Commission was founded by the Gaming Act of May 7th, 1999. This act was passed in 1999. This organization’s primary role is to safeguard players’ protection by adopting various measures, such as age restrictions, self-exclusion programs, and tools for responsible gambling.

The Impact of This Regulation for Registered Gamblers Under 21

The lingering question revolves around the proposed regulation’s potential consequences on individuals under 21 who are already registered as gamblers. What fate awaits their winnings and accounts? Will they face expulsion from new online casinos? A shift in Belgium’s legal gambling age from 18 to 21 would have far-reaching effects on both gamblers and the entire gambling industry.

In response, online casinos and sportsbooks would be compelled to promptly close the accounts of those affected, leaving many underage players needing assistance to claim their winnings. The specific approach to handling this situation would vary based on each casino’s policy.

To address these changes, the Belgian government and other entities dedicated to Responsible Gambling must make substantial investments in education and establish regulatory bodies to ensure adherence to the new rules. Additionally, there is a need for the creation of fresh advertisements and marketing campaigns tailored for players aged 21 and above. Anticipated consequences include a potential decline in revenue for online casinos, mainly if a significant portion of their clientele falls within the 18 to 20 age bracket. However, the situation is expected to stabilize, and a new normal will emerge.

Are Other EU Countries Adopting Similar Measures

Belgium is where you’ll find the EU headquarters. It shares borders with Germany, the Netherlands, and France and has a population of 11.5 million. Gambling has a long history here, with discoveries of 13th-century card games and a 15th-century national lottery system.

Online gambling became legal in Belgium in 2011 through the Belgian Gaming Act. Popular sports betting includes horse racing, football, and cycling, while sports betting and top casino games are also widely enjoyed.

Upcoming gambling laws in Belgium, focusing on responsible gambling at top online casinos, might bring about significant changes. If the gambling age is raised, it could influence other countries like Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, and more, where the gambling age is still 18. While this adjustment poses challenges for online casinos, raising the gambling age aims to protect young individuals from the risks of gambling addiction.

Many European nations are tightening gambling regulations to address the impact of gambling addiction. Lithuania, for instance, is considering raising the gambling age to 21, with a vote scheduled for July 2024. Across Europe, the gambling age limit typically falls between 18 and 21, except for Greece, where it is set at 23. This age limit is in place to safeguard youngsters who may not fully grasp the consequences and risks of gambling due to a lack of maturity and judgment. Top online casinos employ Responsible Gambling tools, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion, to support vulnerable players and strictly enforce age restrictions.

In 2023, online casinos enhanced protection measures against fraud, cheating, and cyberattacks. As of 2024, playing online slots, table games, and betting on sports is safer than ever. Leading minimum deposit casinos prioritize online security to safeguard player data. Random Number Generators ensure fair game outcomes with regular audits of encryption technologies. The current focus in 2024 is on responsible gaming and stricter regulations governing financial transactions, players, and operators.

Global Experts to gather in NZ for the International Gambling Conference 2024

The 2024 International Gambling Conference is happening right here in Auckland, New Zealand, and experts from around the world are due to attend. The July conference is expected to attract over 500 delegates from more than 30 countries, making it one of the largest and most diverse gambling conferences in the world.

The event taking place from 10-12 July 2024 at the Sir Paul Reeves Building at AUT will bring together researchers, policy makers, practitioners, industry representatives, and people with lived experience in the field to share their knowledge, insights and perspectives on contemporary and gambling issues.

On the agenda includes a ministerial keynote address, risky loot box use, disproportionate spending associated with problem gambling, skins and sports betting, the stigma of gambling harm, the public health approach to gambling, new harm minimisation regulations, and of course the concerns around pokies, and, of course, the influence of top NZ online casinos.

The event will include workshops, panel discussions, concurrent sessions and much more.

For anyone who is interested, this is a must-attend event. It will be the chance to learn from the best minds in the field, to exchange ideas and experiences, and to make new connections and collaborations – all to help us progress towards a safer, more equitable gambling industry.

What the event will cover in New Zealand

The entertainment of gambling has been practised for centuries in countless forms and by countless cultures – including right here in New Zealand. But how can we enjoy this pastime responsibly, and in what ways can recent advances in treatment, research, and public health help in reducing gambling harm, when it happens? And how can we promote responsible gambling among individuals, communities and societies?

As stakeholders in this field, we’re enthusiastic about ensuring that people can continue to enjoy gambling responsibly, so are keen to gain perspectives and insights as to the ongoing developments in this industry and do our part to promote responsible gambling.

The theme for this year’s conference is: Unveiling Progress: Treatment, research and public health advances in reducing gambling harm

Gambling is a complex and multifaceted pastime, and if not done responsibly, can have profound effects on people. The entertainment, socialisation and economic benefits of a flutter – or a few – have to be weighed against the potential harm it can cause to the health, wellbeing and finances of those who gamble problematically – especially since harm can affect wider communities.

At this conference, experts aim to explore the progress that has been made in the field of gambling studies, with a special focus on treatment, research, and public health. By sharing collective knowledge and wisdom, this conference will showcase the latest innovations and best practices that can help people enjoy their pokies, online casinos in NZ and abroad, races, and other forms of gambling entertainment in ways that are sustainable and responsible.

The conference will cover five focus key areas:

1. Examining gambling-related behaviours and resulting harms, while highlighting our adaptive strategies.
2. Navigating the evolving landscape of gambling, characterised by the emergence of novel and highly accessible gambling products. We will also explore the increasingly blurred boundaries between gaming and gambling.
3. Charting the growth and evolution of effective harm reduction methodologies, with a keen focus on technological advancements in this domain.
4. Looking deeper at the inequities experienced by various population groups affected by gambling-related harm, all within the context of diverse gambling environments.
5. Recognising and celebrating the distinct journey of individuals, families, and communities as they progress from the impact of gambling harm towards a state of well-being.

These conference themes align with the New Zealand Government’s focus on challenging health inequities and barriers to services for those affected by gambling harm, as outlined in the New Zealand Ministry of Health’s Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm. The conference theme also embraces the experiences and knowledge from across the industry and shares the stories of individuals who have first-hand experience of gambling addiction.

Who will be speaking?

This will be an enriching event, supported by keynote speeches from the following:

• Moko Tepania, Far North Mayor: Elected in 2022 at the age of 31, Moko Tepania is the first Māori and the youngest mayor of the Far North District. Tepania has a background in teaching and has a strong focus on ensuring a youth voice is amplified in the decision-making processes of the council. He represents Northland on the National Council of Local Government New Zealand and is also a member of the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs.
• Simone Rodda, AUT Associate Professor: Simone Rodda is a social scientist and a leading researcher on gambling and other behavioural addictions, currently working at the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at AUT. Professor Rodda is also the founder of the Change Strategies Project, which investigates the effectiveness of online interventions for reducing harmful gambling and other addictive behaviours including alcohol, internet pornography and gaming, sugar, and caffeine. Associate Prof. Rodda has over 20 years of experience in gambling treatment, education, and research, and has published extensively on various topics related to gambling, such as online and mobile gambling, self-exclusion, self-help, and interventions.
• Dr Reece Bush-Evans, Bournemouth University Lecturer: Dr Reece Bush-Evans is a senior lecturer in psychology and a member of the Gambling Research Group at Bournemouth University, UK, and has published extensively on gambling treatment, education, and research. Dr Bush-Evans’ work focuses on the social-psychological aspects of human behaviour and has included cross-disciplinary research on problematic gambling and how technology can help with the detection, prevention and intervention of harmful behaviours.
• IGC Partners: No conference could go forward without collaborative efforts from across the regional industry. Here are the groups behind this event.
• AUT Gambling and Addictions Research Centre: Education programmes, the advocacy of policy and service provisions, sharing research-based content, and collaborative work with other stakeholders, AUT’s Gambling and Addictions Research Centre at AUT brings together research to improve New Zealand’s understanding of gambling’s impacts on society in order that we can develop better policies and practices.
• PGF Group: The Problem Gambling Foundation is a national non-profit organisation that works closely with its subsidiary charitable companies to provide public health and clinical services that benefit the well-being of whānau and communities. Largely funded by the Ministry of Health with funds received from the gambling levy, PGF’s mission is to enhance the mana of people and communities to be free of gambling harm.

The conference will also offer keynotes and presentations that will showcase the latest research and practice from various disciplines and domains, such as psychology, sociology, public health, law, economics, education, and media. The conference will also provide opportunities for networking and collaboration among the delegates.

Going forward

Don’t miss this opportunity to join the global gambling community in New Zealand for the International Gambling Conference 2024. It will be a rewarding and memorable experience that will enhance your knowledge, skills, and networks in the field of gambling. We look forward to seeing you in Auckland in July!

ChatGPT says these are the most reliable online casinos in Canada

And here we have it – the official, ChatGPT list of the 5 most reliable online casinos in Canada. It doesn’t get much more transparent than this – an objective, official ranking backed by the considerable knowledge of this artificial intelligence (AI).

Wondering where you should head over for a trustworthy gambling experience? These are our winners, for your enjoyment:

• LeoVegas
• 888 Casino
• Betway Casino
• JackpotCity Casino
• Spin Casino

 Of course, at Minimum deposit casinos Canada we’re not just going to trust the words of ChatGPT, no matter how right it is. We’ve tested all the sites rigorously to ensure that they actually reach our standards, and we’re going to delve exactly into what makes these Canadian low deposit casinos so great.

LeoVegas in Canada –what makes it reliable

The king of online casinos in Canada! There are so many things that make this site a fan favorite with Canuck players. Starting with the fact that it’s a multi-award winner, scooping up numerous industry awards for its games, services and even its mobile app. The welcome bonus also makes it a sought-after $10 deposit casino Canada – all new players receive up to $2,000 cash and 200 free spins. The latter includes 20 free, no deposit spins: yup, there’s no obligation to deposit anything or even to verify your payment methods, making this one of the best online casinos Canada offer we’ve seen. Should you decide to make a deposit, LeoVegas Casino offers all the most convenient methods for Canadian players, including credit cards, ewallets and prepaid cards.

Best of all, LeoVegas commits itself to trying to cash out any requests within 24 hours, so there are no annoying pending periods for withdrawals. The games lobby includes a selection of leading software providers that you’d expect from the top online casinos Canada, with ample pokies and table games and a very well-equipped live casino section.

This gambling site is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission, both of which are two of the strictest gambling regulators. This translates into a safe and super gambling experience for players, which entirely justifies the excellent reputation for reliability this Canadian online casino has garnered.

888 Casino in Canada –what makes it reliable

Want to receive 88 free spins with no deposit whatsoever? Welcome to 888 Casino, ChatGPT’s second recommendation for the most reliable online casinos in Canada. 888 Casino is a massive brand that needs no introduction with Canucks, offering everything from top games to some excellent sports betting options. The site was founded in 1997, so it’s had plenty of time to gather expertise about what players look for.

You’ve got 2,000+ games to pick from, including a separate poker lobby if you’re a fan. Blackjack is also taken very seriously, and you’ll find some of the best blackjack live tables here. All games are independently audited by eCOGRA, besides being provided by leading names like NetEnt and Pragmatic Play

This is a verified $10 deposit casino Canada, so the minimum deposit required is very low-roller friendly. Besides credit cards, you can also use PayPal and Apple Pay which makes it a notch more convenient. Incidentally, ewallet withdrawals get cashed out within 24 hours – how’s that for reliability?

Oh yes, and there’s a match deposit offer that sees your first $10 deposit matched 100% up to $1,000. Finally, the casino operates with an Ontario gaming license and offers a full spectrum of responsible gambling tools, cementing its position on ChatGPT’s list of most reliable online casinos in Canada.

Betway Casino in Canada –what makes it reliable

Another mega brand that’s been honing its excellent reputation since 2006. With a first deposit offer of 100% up to $250, this Canadian online casino’s welcome is nothing to scoff at. Although this is a $10 deposit casino Canada, you’ll need to deposit $20 to be eligible for the bonus.

No-one’s complaining though, because truth to tell, the Betway offering is pretty spectacular. For starters, the site is licensed by the MGA and the UKGC, joining the ranks of most trustworthy gambling sites. The casino is divided between the poker room and the rest of the games like pokies, table games, live casino and more.

The poker section is powered by Microgaming and offers daily tournaments for those with a competitive edge. A beautifully equipped live casino offers Evolution tables, including the popular gameshows like Monopoly and Dream Catcher. And besides a strong selection of pokies, you’ve also got keno and scratchies to choose from.

Betway’s loyalty program is really on point, with a vast array of free spin bonuses, reloads and other perks that increase the more you wager. Working through the six levels is not only fun, but can also be extremely lucrative.

JackpotCity in Canada –what makes it reliable

Welcome to the first $5 deposit casino Canada on ChatGPT’s list. That’s right, you can start playing at Jackpot City with a mere $5, but we do suggest that you put in at least $10 so as to be eligible for the welcome offer. We promise that it’s worth your while, as you will receive up to $1,600 in bonus cash.

JackpotCity is another oldie but goldie, established in 1998 and holding licenses from the

Malta Gaming Authority, the Swedish Gambling Authority and the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. We’re already on to a good start, but it gets better. This online casino Canada offers a ton of midweek and weekend promotions for returning players, so you can see that it’s really geared towards creating the best gambling experience.

Best thing for progressive jackpot fans? Not only is there a great choice, but the casino will also send out indicators about which ones are set to drop shortly. And Canadian players will be even happier to know there are a lot of Canada specific titles to enjoy. Happy spinning!

Spin Casino in Canada –what makes it reliable

Spin those slots to another of the best online casinos Canada with Spin Casino. Our fifth and final entry on Chat GPT’s list of most reliable Canadian online casinos is a real haven for pokie lovers. It’s clear that this site was created for slot enthusiasts and it’s difficult to find a collection of better titles from giants like NetEnt, Microgaming, Playtech, IGT and more. There are all the variations you may wish to try – from low bet ranges to high volatility, high RTP, progressive jackpots, bonus buys…

If you’d like to try your hand at something different, worry not – this site also offers a good selection of table games and live casino. The welcome offer of 100% up to $1,000 only requires a $10 deposit to activate it, and you can pay by credit card, ewallet or prepaid card.

This online casino Canada is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority and the Ontario Lotteries and Gaming Corporation, so you’re in excellent hands.

Try your luck at ChatGPT’s List of Most Reliable Canadian Online Casinos

Do you agree with ChatGPT’s list? If this list has not got you excited then perhaps you should take a look at our Casino Reviews page as there are plenty of other reliable online casinos out there for you to try out. May good fortune smile on you!

Why lawmakers need to be educated on internet casino games

By Ramona Depares         

Online gambling is no longer considered a new phenomenon. Remote gaming came out in the noughties, and has been going strong for around two decades. It is then reasonable to assume that authorities in countries would be familiar with the concept and its intricacies.

And yet, this is evidently not the case with many lawmakers still struggling to fully grasp the concept and the various distinctions that characterize the world of remote gambling, Reality is that many people in authority do not understand the difference between, for example, playing at the top online casinos and using an unregistered, unregulated site.

Words like ‘unregistered’, ‘unregulated’, ‘offshore’, ‘licensed’ and even legal versus illegal online casinos remain a mystery to many and a site that offers responsible gambling tools and a superb customer support service is very often viewed in the same way as one that doesn’t.

Which is, of course, a huge shame as it defeats the entire point of having legislation to regulate these matters. The problem was highlighted most recently at the SBC Summit that took place in North America earlier in May.

One of the hottest takes on the schedule revolved around discussions about the importance of educating state lawmakers about internet casino games, while drawing a distinction between the different types of sites that players may encounter.

The summit brought together key speakers from several leading online gambling brands with a presence in the US, each of whom took a strong stance in this regard.

And the operators of some of the best online casino brands are in agreement, while emphasizing the importance of remote gaming as a government source of revenue across the US.

Speaking to Associated Press (AP), Cesar Fernandez, one of the senior directors at FanDuel, remarked how, with post-pandemic federal aid now in decline, states are looking towards alternative sources of revenue that don’t involve raising taxes on residents. Revenue from operator gambling tax fits the bill nicely.

“Since 2018, FanDuel has paid $3.2 billion in taxes,” he said. “That’s a lot of teacher salaries, a lot of police officers and firefighters,” he told Associated Press.

Yet, the industry still faces challenging stumbling blocks when it comes to regulatory approval across the states. Some cite concerns about the increase of gambling addiction, in the belief that legalized online casinos would be facilitating access. This, despite the fact that regulated sites are all required to offer comprehensive responsible gambling tools, with most going over and above minimum legal requirements and taking a highly-player centric approach to stave off future problems.

That said, it is also true that online casinos themselves needed to be a lot more vocal about such efforts related towards player protection, Associated Press reported.

The challenges for internet casino gambling

Internet casino gambling has faced a diversity of challenges since its inception. The old adage goes that people are always scared of a new thing, and nowhere has this held so true as within the sphere of online casinos. The reasons for this skepticism are wide and varied.

Some states and countries are scared of going against public opinion, even though in reality it would appear that the general public is well in favor of it. Others cite a risk of encouraging underage gambling or even addiction. Others still mention financial crimes, the risk of fraud and other technical matters, even though the top online casinos operate to an extremely high standard of security, implementing thorough AML and anti-fraud measures while using the latest technologies to build their platforms.

However, perhaps the biggest nemesis that online casinos must face ironically hails from within their very own industry. These are brick-and-mortar casinos, forever fearful that internet gambling sites will rob them of their daily bread. One such example is Rob Norton, president of Cordish Gaming, a company that owns both retail casinos and internet gambling sites. Perhaps unexpectedly, he is one of the strongest opponents, claiming that remote gambling is causing damage to long-standing brick-and-mortar casinos.

“We’re setting ourselves up for our own failure,” he told AP, adding that, since Maryland legalized online sports betting, retail revenue at his company’s Maryland Live! casino was reduced by 65% and shows no signs of recovering. Moreover, he added, since remote sports wagering became popular he’s seen a decrease of some 7,000 people a day visiting the retail casino.

“Last year, eight states considered i-gaming,” he continued. “Not one passed.”

By contrast, the figures for online gambling revenue at online casinos in regulated states remain on the increase. In Pennsylvania alone, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) regularly reports record-breaking revenue figures for remote gaming. In March alone, there was a 28.95% increase in revenue generated compared to the same period last year. And in New Jersey, iGaming revenue has almost caught up with land-based figures, with the New Jersey Gambling Division reporting an overall increase of 19.9% when compared to 2023 as reported by IGB North America. Figures in other regulated states are equally positive.

Such trends reveal that remote gambling may indeed be catching up with their retail counterparts in the US and Canada and, as new online casinos continue to emerge, a decline is unlikely to happen.

Why understanding is important for adoption of gambling regulation

To ensure a level playing-field for all, while ensuring that players are protected, it is crucial for lawmakers to understand the regulated online casino environment, especially when it comes to passing regulations or measures. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why understanding the different terminologies and types of online casinos is important.

It puts legislators in a position to properly ensure consumer protection. You can’t protect someone from something you don’t understand, it’s as simple as that. The world of online casinos comprises a fair amount of technical and specialist topics that, if misunderstood, risk killing any legal efforts at safeguarding the consumer. These include ensuring that personal and financial data is secure, besides making sure that all games are fair and abide by true random generation. Lawmakers need a nuanced understanding of such topics so as to be able to legislate effectively.

It helps prevent financial crimes. Unfortunately, the one-size-fits-all approach that many lawmakers have adopted when regulating online gambling actually helps bad actors who want to take advantage of this ignorance. Lawmakers need to not only have a solid understanding of anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) procedures, but also be aware that the multitude of obligations imposed in this regard upon licensed online casinos undoubtedly make them safer than their unregulated counterparts. When a site is licensed, there are various measures in place to prevent financial crimes such as money laundering and fraud, which are common risks in unregulated markets.

It boosts the economy. As we’ve seen above, a well-regulated online gambling industry can generate significant tax revenue. It will also create jobs and contribute positively to the economy as most of the gambling brands take a significant interest in charitable and social endeavors where they operate. When lawmakers are well informed about the online casino environment, they can implement regulations that leverage economic benefits while maintaining a balance with responsible gambling practices.

It ensures a level playing field. If lawmakers fail to adequately regulate remote gambling, they’re leaving the door open to unscrupulous operators to take advantage of the gap in the market and indulge in unfair and uncompetitive practices.

Finally, understanding the distinction between regulated and unregulated online casinos is one of the best ways to maximize responsible gambling efforts. By ensuring that a licensed gambling site must offer proper responsible gambling tools, lawmakers are providing the best protection to players, reducing the risks that they end up gambling at unregistered sites with no interest in player protection and eliminating the market for bad actors.

Citations   

Our 3 Favorite Bonuses at Buffalo Casinos in Canada

By Shadrack Kairu

If you’re a Canadian minimum deposit casino player who loves scoring sweet deals, you’ve probably heard of Buffalo Partners before. If not, allow us to introduce you to this juggernaut of the online gambling space.

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Which Casinos Are Managed By Buffalo Partners?

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With that out of the way, it’s time to spotlight three absolute standouts from the Buffalo family killing it with some insane bonus offers for Canadians right now.

Spin Casino is One of Our 3 Favorite Buffalo Casinos

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The Spin Galaxy Welcome Bonus

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Beware: The Red Flags of Fake Canadian Casino Sites

In the dazzling world of online casinos, where fortunes can be made and lost with a click, there’s a looming shadow we all need to watch out for – fake Canadian online casino sites. There is a sinister side to the land of igloos, maple syrup, and amiable people – con artists hiding behind alluring virtual gaming havens.

Conducting a thorough study and due diligence before selecting an online casino in Canada is crucial. Protecting your hard-earned money from online scammers is more critical than it is about winning or losing. Let’s examine the main warning signs that will help you identify scammers and maintain the safety and enjoyment of your online gaming experience.

Red Flag 1: Non-Existent Licensing

The licensing details must be the first thing you look for researching an online casino. For security and comfort, you need to know where to look and how to locate it.

All Canada online casinos are required by law to prominently disclose their licensing information on their websites. This information is usually located in the footer part of the website, frequently beneath a page like “Legal Information” or “About Us.” A basic necessity for transparency gives players confidence in the authority of a casino.

However, why is it crucial to understand the location of an online casino’s license and registration?

• Legal protection: A contract binds the casino to specific regulations and standards. It, in turn, provides players with a level of legal protection.
• Fairness and openness: Strict requirements for fairness and transparency are placed on licensed online casinos. They get routinely audited to ensure the odds are fair and the games do not get manipulated.
• Safety and Security: It ensures that your personal and financial information gets safeguarded against cyber threats.
• Accountability: In disputes, licensing authorities exist to mediate between players and casinos, providing an additional layer of protection.

Red Flag 2: Lack of Secure Payment Methods

Ensuring that the online casino you choose offers secure payment methods is of utmost importance Let’s delve into why this aspect is crucial for your online gaming experience.

• Financial security: Safe Casino payment methods act as a protective shield for your funds. Reputable casinos offer well-established payment options like e-wallets, credit cards, and debit cards. They ensure that your financial transactions are encrypted and secure.
• Recognizable Logos and Icons: Trustworthy platforms proudly display the logos and icons of their payment providers. These symbols are a visual assurance of reliability. You can instantly recognize familiar logos from banks and reputable financial institutions like PayPal indicating that the top online casinos Canada is transparent about its financial dealings.
• Cryptocurrency caution: While cryptocurrencies are gaining popularity, the exclusive use of crypto should raise your suspicions. Scammers often favor cryptocurrencies due to the anonymity they provide. Legitimate casinos typically offer various payment methods to accommodate multiple player preferences. There needs to be more traditional options like eWallets, credit cards, and debit cards, which could be a red flag.
• User convenience: Various secure payment methods ensure financial safety and offer convenience. You can choose the most comfortable mode, making deposits and withdrawals a hassle-free experience.

Red Flag 3: Zero Casino Reviews

Reviews are the unsung heroes of the online casino world. They play a significant role in helping you separate the legitimate casinos from the questionable ones. Here’s why they are so essential especially for new online casinos Canada:

• Player experiences: Reviews give you a glimpse into other players’ experiences. The firsthand feedback can be invaluable when deciding whether to trust a casino.
• Credibility check: It’s a glaring red flag when you can’t find any reviews for an online casino, especially if it claims to have been around for years. Established casinos should have a track record with players sharing their experiences, positive or negative. The absence of reviews can indicate that the casino is either new or deliberately avoiding scrutiny.
• Trust and transparency: Reviews foster trust and transparency. They hold casinos accountable for their promises and actions. Legitimate casinos welcome reviews and use them to improve their services. The lack of studies suggests the casino might have something to hide.
• Spotting scams: Reviews can be your first line of defense against scams. You will likely find complaints in reviews if a casino has a history of scams or poor service. Avoiding such casinos can save you time, money, and frustration.

Red Flag 4: No Demo Games

Best online casinos Canada offer a ‘no deposit bonus’ or the option to play demo games. Let’s explore why these features are essential and why their absence from some casinos may be a red flag:

• Risk-free experience: Demo games or no-deposit bonuses allow players to test the casino’s offerings without risking their money. It’s like a test drive before committing. If a casino needs this option, it may be trying to push you into depositing without giving you a chance to see if you like their games.
• Game familiarity: Playing demo games helps you get familiar with the casino’s games and their mechanics. Before diving into real-money wagers, it’s a great way to understand the rules, features, and overall gameplay.
• Transparency: Casinos that offer demo games are transparent about their offerings. They demonstrate confidence in the quality of their games and give you a chance to experience them firsthand.
• Locating demo games: To find demo games on a casino site, look for sections like “Play for Fun” or “Demo Play.” These sections are often located near the game titles or categories. If you can’t find them, it’s a red flag, and you should be cautious.

Red Flag 5: Unfair Gaming, No Known Software Developers Listed

Checking the gaming software developers listed on a casino website is crucial in ensuring a fair and enjoyable gaming experience.

Here’s why it matters:

• Trust and fairness: Reputable online casinos collaborate with renowned software providers. These developers use cutting-edge technologies, such as Provable Fair algorithms, to guarantee the transparency and fairness of games by enabling players to confirm each game’s justice independently. .provable fair technology levels the playing field for all participants.
• Unidentified developers: It’s a severe red flag for an online casino if its software engineers are either unknown to the industry or need to provide their names. Unknown creators might follow different quality and fairness criteria, endangering your game experience and financial investment.

Red Flag 6: Lack of Ownership Information and History

Transparency is a fundamental aspect of trust when it comes to online casinos. Understanding who owns the casino and its background and history is vital for several reasons:

• Trust and credibility: It builds trust with players and assures them they are dealing with a legitimate and trustworthy establishment.
• Lack of information: When a casino fails to provide ownership details and lacks a transparent history, it raises suspicions. It can make the site appear questionable and unreliable.

Background and History

Understanding a casino’s background and history can also reveal its reputation in the industry. If it has a track record of success and satisfied players, it’s a positive sign. Conversely, if it has a history of complaints or questionable practices, it’s a strong deterrent.

Your safety and security should be paramount for thrilling experiences at the best online casinos Canada. By watching for these red flags, you can ensure your online gaming adventures in the Great White North remain enjoyable and scam-free. So, gear up and play smart because the actual thrill of gambling is in the excitement, not the deceit.

10Bet and Playtech launch sportsbook in Sweden

By Ramona Despares

Playtech has launched its sportsbook in Sweden, announcing the news in partnership with 10Bet on its official website. The software provider, which is one of the leaders in Europe and beyond, celebrated the Swedish partnership with a press statement which confirmed that the sportsbook was now live across 10Bet minimum bet sportsbook platforms within the country.

Playtech, which is known to service the top online casinos, had initially announced the 10Bet partnership on its official website as early as June 2023, with the betting platform allowing Playtech to offer its sports betting products both in the UK and Sweden. However, the Swedish launch had to be delayed as legislators dragged their feet to implement the gambling licensing law that would allow Playtech sports products to go live in the region.

In Sweden, all gambling-related activity is regulated by the Swedish Gambling Authority – aka the Spelinspektionen. ICLG.com, a firm that specializes in Nordic gambling, explains how casinos and sports betting platforms are regulated under the Swedish Gambling Act of 2018. Up till July 2023, this didn’t apply to software providers, which required no license to operate commercially within the country.

This all changed when the regulator announced that it was updating the Gambling Act to include a gambling software permit. Suddenly, any company manufacturing or supplying gambling software for commercial online gambling or betting to Swedish consumers was required to hold this permit. The change in law meant that 10Bet’s and Playtech’s partnership needed to be put on hold until the new system was implemented and the license was granted to Playtech.

Now that the law has been implemented and the license released, the top-rated online casinos in Sweden are free to offer Playtech products legally. 10Bet is the first one to kick things off with the Playtech sportsbook, with both parties expecting to replicate in Sweden the success that this partnership is already enjoying in the UK, where it’s the exclusive sportsbook provider for 10Bet.

Now that the Swedish partnership has finally gone live, Playtech’s VP of Sales and Customer Development, Sergey Harutyunyan, went on record on the software developer’s official website, speaking about how fantastic it is to see the impact Playtech’s Sportsbook is having for both 10bet and its players.

“10bet has established itself as a reliable and trustworthy online platform, dedicated to delivering a fun and secure environment for its players. With a strong focus on user satisfaction, they are committed to continuous innovation and responsible gambling practices, whilst providing an unparalleled gaming experience for their players. This has been an exciting development for our Sportsbook offer, and we can’t wait to see what our partnership will bring next,” he said.

Unique features of the new sportsbook

In the meantime, Swedish players can expect the Playtech sportsbook to deliver the same level of stellar experience that has made the provider so popular at the best online casinos. Sports betting has become a very high priority in Playtech’s portfolio, supporting its strategy for global expansion with a suite of full Player Management System/IMS and the Playtech Open Platform.

All the sports product verticals will be available in Sweden through 10Bet as the Spellispektionen license covers all products. This new partnership puts the spotlight on the strong demand the country is experiencing in terms of sports betting, with 10Bet spokesperson Yuval Klein commenting in the same press statement:

“We are truly amazed by the results we’re getting so far with the Playtech Sportsbook. It was one of the most successful bets we’ve made in recent years. From developing a smooth player experience to increasing bonus capability, incorporating Playtech’s Sportsbook has been a great move for 10bet players. We look forward to our continued collaboration and shared success with Playtech over the coming months and years”.

10Bet’s new Playtech sportsbook will offer players a comprehensive experience that doesn’t only incorporate betting on several popular sports and markets but also delivers real-time statistics, analytics and news alongside the betting market options.

Players will find it to be one of the best minimum bet sportsbook sites available in Sweden, with more than 30 sports available, including the most popular like Rugby League, Hockey, Golf and Football and more obscure markets like Gaelic Games and Futsal. The site also offers virtual sports and live casinos besides slots and table games, confirming itself as an all-rounder and earning a high ranking on our best online casino reviews.

10Bet is also known for an array of bonuses and promotions, both with respect to sportsbooks and casinos. Whether you’re into sports or slots, take a look at our 10Bet casino review to find out more and to claim your bonus via our link.

Background of 10Bet

10Bet comes with a sterling history and consistently performs as one of the top-rated online casinos globally. It was founded in 2003 and offers a 360-degree full suite of gambling products, with more than 1 million registered customers enjoying the experience offered by the platform.

It is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission and the Swedish Gambling Authority, besides holding a Remote Bookmaker’s Licence in Ireland. These four licenses make it one of the most trustworthy online casinos globally, known for high standards of player protection and responsible gambling measures.

The casino is operated by Ocean Star Limited and has enjoyed several high-profile partnerships, with a presence that extends beyond Europe to Africa via Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya and South Africa, as well as Latin America via Mexico. It is known for taking a strong interest in community matters in the country in which it operates, with a number of local sponsorships such as the Women’s Diski Tournament in Johannesburg. In 2022 it was shortlisted for two industry leader awards – SBC Sportsbook of the Year and Rising Star with 10Bet in Africa.

Background of Playtech

Playtech is one of the industry veterans, having been founded in 1999 by Teddy Sagi in Estonia. Today it’s considered as one of the global leaders in the online casino landscape, establishing itself as a heavyweight in the online gaming and sports betting industry. This company rapidly evolved from its modest beginnings in Europe to a powerhouse that offers software solutions for slots, online poker rooms, bingo games, remote sports betting, scratch games, live dealer studios and more.

One element that has contributed strongly to its success is Playtech’s commitment to legality and regulation. The company prides itself on holding licenses in major jurisdictions, and its operations comply with the strictest regulatory frameworks, granting it a presence in most jurisdictions that range from the UK to Malta, Gibraltar, Isle of Man, Italy, Spain, Philippines, Denmark, Sweden and many others. This dedication to legal compliance has enabled it to thrive in various markets around the globe, further solidifying its status as a trusted name at the top online casinos.

Throughout its history, Playtech has been the recipient of several industry awards, among the latest being Live Casino Supplier and Poker Supplier at the EGR B2B Awards in 2023. Its most popular slot titles include the Age of the Gods series, Beach Life, Gladiator and Frankie Dettori’s Magic Seven.

A Shining Future In Sweden

Given 10Bet’s and Playtech’s pedigree, Swedish players are expecting great things from the newly launched sportsbook. As the 10Bet site gets ready with a full suite of promotions to celebrate the launch, all attention is on it to see what fruits the partnership will yield.

An in depth look at the South African Gambling market

South Africans have always enjoyed the odd bet or two, yet since the country’s founding in 1673 all forms of gambling such as betting on sports and casino games were outlawed. For close to three centuries that law remained unchanged, that is until the 1965 inception of the South African Gambling Act made on-track betting at horse races legal.

Despite that small 1965 concessive nod of approval to betting on horses, operating a casino, including an online casino, within the borders of South Africa has been illegal since before the country officially appeared on any map, and so it remains till this day.

Yet, on any day of the week do a quick online search and it will reveal that South Africa has a multitude of world-class online casinos operating locally. Moreover, at first glance they look pretty much as good as any of the top brands across the globe, even as attractive as those offering their services in highly competitive markets of strictly regulated countries like the UK.

So, the question one might ask is, how have South African online casinos managed not only to stay open, but also become an unexpected success story? Well, the devil lies in the detail – take a closer look at online casinos South Africa and you’ll start noticing small but very significant differences.

Read on to discover what their secret sauce is as we delve into the details of their undisputed success.

Turning the industry upside down

If the country’s legal framework prohibits playing at South African casinos. Why then are licensed websites able to continue providing slot machines, roulette, or draw games without fear of the long arm of the law? Officially speaking, it is because due to the specific way they are designed they are considered sportsbetting events, and by regulatory definition are considered similar to rugby, cricket, or soccer matches rather than casino games.

It turns out, draw games were the catalyst for everything. Operators looked for ways to introduce new products which adhered to the laws governing sportsbetting. So, over the past four or five years, we have witnessed a near-total transformation of the South African online casino sector.

Operators came up with a legal method to introduce draw games based on numbers in a way that complies with legal rules. In essence, operators discovered they could utilize a contingency of the law that allowed for betting events that were approved and licensed by international regulatory bodies across the globe, as part of their local legislation processes.

In Great Britain, the Gambling Commission (UKGC) would frequently control such products and services. As a result, you may legally wager on the results of these events based on the theory that it was a legal, controlled, or licensed contingency. It essentially is wagering on events validated by their international licensing, which saw the popularity of these games take off like wildfire.

From that point on operators started applying the same principle to live casino games, followed in recent times by RNG games like slots and table games. Currently operators have stepped up their game and have gone a step further by trying to include classic casino games on the grounds that these products also fall under the purview of foreign-licensing bodies and that bettors were wagering on the result. Logically, in definitive regulatory terms, if a bettor wagers on any casino game it can be considered as sportsbetting. And although the logic may seem unusual, that is how the description fits the legal framework.

If one considers the product variety, quality, and mix currently available at online casinos it closely resembles that which is found in any top-end international sportsbook and casino. However, at their core, games at online casinos ZA differ substantially from those of their internationally sanctioned namesakes. These differences are crucial for them to be considered as legally acceptable events to wager on. To comply with the regulations for local gambling events, some modifications are required for certain games. This results in some products that may seem unusual such as fixed, pre-set spinning times on roulette wheels. This means, at all the best online casinos South Africa, even if no one is at a table and no bet is placed, the wheel will still continue to spin at all indicated times.

Online Casino Market is booming

Complying with the regulatory requirements does not appear to have affected online casino revenue too much, online casinos appear to have quickly made up a large share of the revenue.

So, despite all being regulated as bookmakers, what used to be online sportsbook operators are all pretty much full-blown online casinos now. Beyond the fine-tuning required to qualify as fixed-odds betting events, online suppliers face a series of further challenges.

There’s a required process to have games and software tested, all software must be submitted to BMM and/or GLI. These industry approved independent auditors have specialized testing labs to test and verify every last piece of software and system before sending reports of their results to the national gambling board. The board, in return, may respond with a few questions of their own.

Irrespective of whether it is betting software or third-party content, the entire compliance process requires six months with regular increases of up to a year before receiving final approval for the games or products to launch in South Africa. A delay that holds true even for products considered as casino gaming in other markets. The same regulatory processes also apply to all sports betting software because online operators in SA face a unique set of regulatory requirements.

Complicated – yes naturally – it came to fruition from a complex regulatory structure. The South African National Gaming Board is responsible for oversight of all forms of gambling in the country, moreover each of the country’s seven provinces also established its own regulator.

However, for online gambling operators licensed by one regulator allows them to offer their games nationwide in all provinces. This creates confusion since certain games are licensed in specific provinces but not others yet are available across all provinces. Part of the secret sauce for online operators seem to be finding an agreeable regulator, willing to take a fair view on products not yet defined under the rule of law while ensuring promotions like R50 Sign Up Bonuses are beyond scrutiny.

Attempts to change the gambling market

With its last significant reform in the early 2000s followed by a stalled attempt in 2008, it is evident that current legislation is outdated. This leaves regulators lacking the capacity to provide complete, cohesive oversight, as time and technology created numerous potential loopholes that could be exploited.

Local regulators currently are left having to face a lengthy list of products and services that lack clear description and classification within the rule of law, that they need to deliver fair judgement on. To date they’ve done an admirable job of coping within their prescribed parameters. Where previously unlicensed operators were a thriving community, many rejected casino-like products now receive a nod of approval from provincial regulators.

In September 2022, the Democratic Alliance (DA), in a bill presented to parliament, highlighted the need to establish a national regulatory structure. The structure that, in addition to a lengthy list of new points it needed to address would specifically cover online gambling. In the DA’s opinion the current lack of regulation cultivates fertile ground for criminal activity while simultaneously leaving its citizenry ineffectively protected. The bill left provincial authorities responsible for the issuing of licenses but within the rules of a more clearly defined national framework.

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In summary, the online casino scene is currently a bit of a wild west show with some operators, finding a provincial authority pre-disposed to fairly judge products not specifically defined under current law, taking more benefit than others. However, it is important to note that unlike previous attempts at legislating online gambling in SA, the political atmosphere as it relates to gambling changed significantly, paving the way for R100 Sign up Bonus promotions.

The DA’s proposed bill is not the latest attempt to once again ban online gambling. Instead, it encourages approval and inclusion which would not only expand a well-regulated market, it would also create a significantly safer environment for players and improve the tax revenue stream for the government.

However, irrespective of the outcomes of future political and legal wranglings, online gambling in South Africa has become too big to simply get rid of. In light of the current state of regulatory affairs, it is important to make certain you are playing in a safe as possible environment as it is a key factor. South African players can keep themselves safe by playing only at legally licensed online casinos.

The easiest, safest, quickest way to access a vast number of qualifying casinos is to refer to our South African casino reviews. Here you’ll find an extensive number of casinos that we’ve tested according to strict criteria. Based on our findings, we have provided unbiased reviews containing all the most pertinent details you need to make better, well-informed decisions when choosing a casino to join and partner with.

Here’s how it’s going-Two years of Ontario Regulation

By Ramona Depares 

April 2022 made history on the Ontario casinos landscape – it was the month when Bill C-218 was enacted into law, making it possible for each Canada province to create its own regulated casino and sports betting market. Ontario was the first province to scoop up the opportunity.

Now, two years later, the verdict is in. While many were sceptical when the new regulations came in, it would appear that a regulated market is exactly what Ontario players were waiting for, as a new study commissioned by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) in conjunction with iGaming Ontario revealed that the vast majority Canadian gamblers choose to play on regulated sites.

The transition to a regulated market has translated into a number of benefits, with low deposit casinos Ontario able to obtain a license that allows them to operate freely while also significantly contributing to job creation across the province.

The study, which was conducted in February 2024, confirmed that 86.4% of Ontarians who gambled at online casinos Canada during the preceding three months used regulated sites. This represents an increase of 1.1% from the 85.3% of gamblers who reported playing on regulated sites when a similar study was conducted in 2023.

According to the press statement released by AGCO, efforts to strengthen the regulated market are ongoing. Despite the encouraging numbers, the study also revealed that a sizable portion of gamblers chose a mix of both regulated and unregulated sites, and a full 13.6% carried out all their wagering at unlicensed online casinos in Canada. Moreover, participants to the survey named more than 350 unregulated Canadian online casinos that they used regularly, indicating a significant amount of illicit betting activity and a need for AGCO to continue working towards directing players to regulated Ontario casinos. This, despite the fact that there are 47 registered operators offering 77 regulated Ontario casinos.

However, Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey had optimistic words for the outlook of the regulated market, stating that since its April 2022 launch the Ontario igaming model “has been recognized internationally for championing work to displace the unregulated online gaming market. This made-in-Ontario, regulated market will continue to inspire global innovation, while ensuring a safer landscape for players and businesses alike.”

12 000 Jobs created in Ontario Since Regulation

A pleasing side effect of the success of the market has been the creation of a significant number of new jobs within the gambling sector. A report published by research company Deloitte & Touche in June 2023 found that the province’s regulated igaming market was sustaining more than 12,000 full time jobs, contributing nearly $1,6 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Ontario.

The report, titled Economic Contributions of Ontario’s Regulated iGaming Market, focused specifically on the economic benefits that the decision to open the market for regulated companies brought with it. The figures predicted a growth of up to 22,000 full-time jobs, $4,7 billion in GDP and more than $2.1 billion in government revenue within eight years.

Dave Forestell, who at the time was Chair of iGaming Ontario, reiterated that such figures proved that “the newly regulated igaming market in Ontario is delivering real benefits to every resident of Ontario, whether they play or not”, describing the iGaming industry as a real economic driver.

Top Sports by wagers since regulation

Ontario’s sports betting market offers more than 60 types of sport, from the obvious to the less obvious like curling and sumo wrestling. Given this, it comes as no surprise to learn that the province’s online sports betting market ranks in the top five in total wagers in North America.

The absolute winner is basketball, leading with a significant advantage and raking in 24% of sports wagers in Ontario. The next in line, which is football, drops to 15%., which says a lot about the enduring popularity of basketball in Canada. Hockey, baseball and soccer rank very close to each other at 11% and 10%, while tennis takes a middle-of-road positioning at 7%. Propping up the final spots in the top 10 are cricket (4%), table tennis and MMA (2%) and, finally, esports at 1%.

Top Table Games in 2023-2024

What about the top online casinos Canada? Here we see an absolute dominance of table games, with blackjack ruling over all else and earning 27% of all bets. Roulette and baccarat go nose-to-nose, bringing in 9% and 8% of bet respectively, while single player poker and craps catch the 1%.

Over 86% of Players in Ontario play on Regulated sites

Why is the success shown by the AGCO survey an important victory? With 86% of players preferring regulated Ontario casinos, this means that the way has been paved for an altogether safer gambling experience for gamblers in the province.

The reasons why Ontarians do well to prefer a licensed Canadian online casino are various, and include a higher standard of safety and security.

In Ontario, regulated sites are held to high standards of game integrity, data security and player protections, including having significant responsible gaming safeguards. While it’s encouraging to see most participants are choosing regulated gaming options, those who are not are unfortunately risking far more than their wagers.

Dr Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar at AGCO

This was in fact the primary intention behind the launch of a regulated market. The results of the survey were hailed by Martha Otton, Executive Director of iGaming Ontario as a success in attracting Ontarians to the safer, regulated igaming market.

iGaming Ontario joins our operators, government, and AGCO in celebrating. We will continue to work in lockstep with the AGCO to enable Ontarians to play with confidence.

Martha Otton, Executive Director of iGaming Ontario

With only 13.6% of Ontarians carrying out their gambling purely at unregulated sites, the celebration of this victory is justified, as regulated online casinos in Canada have clearly eaten up the lion’s share of the market, and are likely to continue making even stronger inroads in coming years.

Ontario regulation has been regarded as a success

Two years down the line, it’s safe to say that what started out as an experiment has more than proven its worth, with the regulated environment creating a safer gambling experience for everyone and also contributing towards a stronger economy within the province. And with so many new online casinos Canada in the pipeline, the high standards required by the gambling regulator certainly contribute to peace of mind.