Responsible Gambling
Safer-gambling guidance, warning signs, limit-setting ideas and options for seeking support.
Independent information for Canadian visitors
Keep gambling in perspective
Gambling is entertainment, not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Notice warning signs
Hiding play, borrowing, overspending or feeling unable to stop can signal harm.
Take a break and seek help
Use available limits or time-outs and contact a recognised support service in your area if needed.
Responsible Gambling — Keep Gaming in Your Control
Online casino games should be entertainment, not a way to pay the bills or make a living. Responsible gambling means knowing your limits, making informed choices, and being able to walk away when it’s time to stop. Whether you enjoy online slots, blackjack, roulette, or other casino games, your well-being comes first. Set boundaries before you play and never risk money you need for everyday life.
Set Your Gambling Limits Before You Start
It’s easier to stick to a plan when you make it before the action begins. Decide how much time and money you can afford to spend, and treat those limits as non-negotiable. A good session should never come at the expense of rent, food, bills, savings, or time with people who matter to you.
- Set a spending budget: Only use disposable money you can afford to lose.
- Set a time limit: Decide when your session will end and take regular breaks.
- Never chase losses: Trying to win back lost money can lead to bigger losses.
- Don’t borrow to gamble: Avoid credit, loans, or money intended for essential expenses.
- Keep perspective: Wins are never guaranteed, and previous results don’t predict future outcomes.
Tools That Can Help You Stay in Control
Depending on the operator and your location, online gambling accounts may offer tools designed to help you manage your play. Check the responsible gambling section of the official website to see which options are available to you.
| Tool | What It Does | When It May Help |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit Limits | Restricts how much you can deposit over a set period. | When you want a clear limit on funds added to your account. |
| Spending or Loss Limits | May help restrict eligible spending or losses under the tool’s rules. | When you want to manage financial exposure. |
| Session Reminders | Prompts you to check how long you have been playing. | When it’s easy to lose track of time. |
| Time-Out | Allows a temporary break from gambling where offered. | When you need space to reset and reassess. |
| Self-Exclusion | Restricts access to gambling for a selected period or under applicable rules. | When you need a stronger barrier to continued play. |
Recognise the Warning Signs
Sometimes gambling can start taking up more space in your life than you intended. Spotting the signs early can help you take action before the situation becomes harder to manage.
- Spending more money or time gambling than you planned.
- Trying to win back losses by placing more bets.
- Hiding gambling activity or being dishonest about spending.
- Borrowing money or using funds meant for essential expenses.
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or distressed when you try to stop.
- Letting gambling affect work, studies, sleep, or relationships.
You don’t need to wait until things feel serious to ask for help. If any of these signs sound familiar, consider taking a break and talking to someone you trust or a professional support service.
What to Do If Gambling Stops Feeling Fun
- Pause your play: Log out and give yourself some space.
- Protect your money: Avoid further deposits and do not borrow funds to continue gambling.
- Use account tools: Consider deposit limits, a time-out, or self-exclusion if available.
- Talk to someone: Reach out to a trusted person or a qualified gambling support service.
- Get specialist help: Look for confidential support available in your country or region.
Support for Problem Gambling
Help is available, and asking for it is a positive step. You can contact a recognised gambling support organisation in your area, speak with a healthcare professional, or use a confidential helpline. If you live in Canada, check current provincial or territorial services because support options and contact details vary by location. If gambling is affecting someone close to you, support services may also be able to advise family members and friends.
Underage Gambling and Account Safety
Gambling services are intended only for people who meet the applicable legal age requirement. Never create an account using someone else’s identity, and do not let underage people access your gambling account. Keep your login details private and use the security features available on your device and account.
Keep Gambling in Perspective
There is no guaranteed strategy for winning at casino games. Treat every wager as money you could lose, stick to your limits, and never gamble to escape financial pressure or recover previous losses. Taking a break is always an option, and choosing not to gamble is valid too. Your health, finances, and relationships matter more than any game.
Frequently asked questions
What are warning signs?
Overspending, borrowing, hiding play or feeling unable to stop can be warning signs.
Can I set limits?
Use available deposit, time or loss limits where offered.
What if gambling causes stress?
Take a break and speak with someone you trust or a support service.
Can gambling solve financial problems?
No. It is not a reliable source of income.
Where can I find help?
Look for a recognised gambling-support service in your province or territory.