- AGCO says operator didn’t pick up on red flags regarding patron’s behaviour
- Patron wagered $2.5 million, piling up $230,000 in losses
- Player showed frequent high-stakes play and excessive losses
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has announced it is issuing a fine of CAD $105,000 against Score Media and Gaming Inc. for failing to meet the province’s responsible gambling and player protection standards.
Dangerous Play
Following a regulatory review, AGCO determined a player on the theScore platform wagered CAD $2.5 million and lost $230,000 over an eight-month period. That included approximately $100,000 in the first month of play. The player’s behaviour showed frequent, high-stakes play and escalating losses, showing a risk of potential gambling-related harm.
According to an AGCO statement, the player repeatedly requested bonuses and showed signs of distress to the operator’s VIP host. These were all opportunities for theScore to have stepped in on behalf of the player and reduce the potential of high-risk, damaging play.
Signs of Distress
The AGCO alleges that theScore failed to conduct meaningful responsible gambling interventions and due diligence. The operator failed to see red flags that included inaccurate income documentation, relying on the patron’s self assessments.
“Player protections are a fundamental requirement for any gambling operator looking to conduct business in Ontario,” said Dr. Karin Schnarr, Chief Executive Officer and Registrar, AGCO. “When operators fail to uphold these critical safer gambling standards, they not only betray the trust of their players but also undermine the integrity of Ontario’s regulated igaming market.”
Score Media and Gaming Inc. can appeal the registrar’s decision to the Licence Appeal Tribunal if it chooses.
Numerous Industry Fines
The AGCO has fined several operators over the past year. Casino Days was fined $54,000 for alleged deceptive and high-risk bonus offerings last July. BetMGM was fined $110,000 in March for allegedly offering cash to induce new gambling customers. NorthStar Gaming was fined $30,000 in November 2024 for failing to ensure its site, NorthStarbets.ca, was accessible only to players in Ontario.
The post AGCO Hits theScore With $105,000 Fine appeared first on Casino.org.
