iGaming Ontario launches province-wide self-exclusion platform BetGuard
iGaming Ontario has launched a province-wide self-exclusion platform called BetGuard, allowing players to voluntarily block themselves from every regulated online gambling site operating in Ontario through a single portal.
The new system, available through BetGuard.ca, enables anyone aged 19 and older to opt out of Ontario’s regulated online gambling market without needing to visit individual sportsbook or casino sites separately.
Once enrolled, players are prevented from accessing existing gambling accounts, opening new accounts or receiving direct marketing from regulated betting sites and casinos, including the government-run Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
MORE: Gambling in Canada
The launch marks one of the most extensive centralized self-exclusion systems introduced in a regulated online gambling market globally and comes as Ontario’s open igaming market continues to expand rapidly.
“BetGuard is designed with one simple principle in mind: if you need take a break from the entire regulated igaming market, you can,” said iGaming Ontario president and chief executive Joseph Hillier.
Players can choose exclusion periods of six months, one year, five years or a custom timeframe. The system also includes a dedicated customer support line.
The regulator said the platform was developed in partnership with government agencies, responsible gambling experts and licensed operators as part of broader efforts to strengthen consumer protections in Canada’s largest regulated online gambling market.
Ontario launched its competitive regulated igaming model in 2022 and has since become one of the fastest-growing regulated online gambling jurisdictions in North America, attracting dozens of licensed sportsbook and casino brands.
According to iGaming Ontario, the province’s regulated market generated C$262 million in revenue during the 2024-25 fiscal year, with proceeds reinvested into public services and responsible gambling initiatives.
Ontario has additionally invested more than C$421 million into gambling awareness campaigns, support services, education programs and research since 2018.
The regulator argued BetGuard provides safeguards that are generally unavailable through offshore and unregulated gambling platforms, which continue to operate outside Ontario’s licensing framework.
The Canadian Gaming Association, which is the advocate for licensed gambling operators in Canada, welcomed the initiative from iGaming Ontario.
“The Canadian Gaming Association welcomes the introduction of BetGuard, recognizing it as an integral component of Ontario’s comprehensive player protection framework,” Canadian Gaming Association President and CEO Paul Burns said.
“Our members are committed to implementing this tool in their day-to-day operations, ensuring that any player who chooses to take a break can do so instantly and completely. This is regulated gaming delivering on its promise.”
