Key Moments:
- AGCO has fined Score Media and Gaming Inc. CA$105,000 for failing to intervene with a high-risk gambler
- One customer was allowed to wager approximately CA$2.5 million and lose CA$230,000 over eight months without proper oversight
- theScore breached three sections of Ontario’s Registrar’s Standards, highlighting deficiencies in monitoring and employee training
Regulator Imposes Significant Penalty
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has issued a CA$105,000 penalty to Score Media and Gaming Inc., the company behind theScore Bet. The regulator identified failures related to responsible gambling protocols, specifically surrounding the handling of a customer classified as high-risk.
Investigation Reveals Lapses in Oversight
An AGCO investigation determined that theScore allowed a player to place about CA$2.5 million in wagers, resulting in CA$230,000 in losses, over an eight-month period without sufficient intervention or review. Indicators such as frequent, large bets and mounting losses did not prompt the required responsible gambling review. The AGCO noted shortcomings in theScore’s monitoring systems, as well as internal processes for detecting and managing excessive gambling behavior.
Compliance Failures and Regulatory Response
According to the AGCO, theScore violated three essential provisions of Ontario’s Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming relating to harm minimization, behavioral monitoring, and employee training in player protection. The agency cited these breaches as undermining efforts to maintain a safe, regulated environment for players.
Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO CEO and Registrar, remarked, “Strong responsible gambling measures are fundamental to ensuring this industry operates safely and sustainably,” underscoring the importance of player safety and the need for robust controls.
Next Steps and Sector Implications
The penalty reflects Ontario’s intensified scrutiny on compliance and enforcement within the online gaming landscape. theScore retains the right to challenge the ruling before the Licence Appeal Tribunal. AGCO has confirmed its ongoing commitment to monitor all licensed operators to ensure adherence to responsible gambling standards.
| Operator | Fine Amount | Regulator | Breach Duration | Customer Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score Media and Gaming Inc. (theScore Bet) | CA$105,000 | AGCO | Eight months | CA$230,000 |
- Author
Daniel Williams
