BetGuard Launches in Ontario as New Online Gaming Self-Exclusion Tool

iGaming Ontario has officially launched BetGuard, a new province-wide self-exclusion tool designed to help individuals step away from online gambling across all regulated operators in Ontario. The initiative enables residents aged 19 and over to voluntarily block access to every licensed online gaming platform through a single centralized portal.

Available through BetGuard, the new system prevents users from accessing existing accounts, opening new ones, and receiving marketing communications from any regulated iGaming operator in the province.

A unified approach to responsible gaming

The launch marks another step in Ontario’s broader efforts to strengthen player protection and responsible gambling safeguards within its regulated market.

According to Joseph Hillier, the platform was built around the idea of giving players greater control over their gaming activity.

"BetGuard is designed with one simple principle in mind: if you need to take a break from the entire regulated iGaming market, you can. Player choice is key to the sustainability of our market, and that includes the choice to opt out," Hillier said.

Developed with industry and responsible gaming experts

iGaming Ontario collaborated with government stakeholders, responsible gaming specialists, and market operators to create the platform and ensure broad integration across the province’s regulated ecosystem.

The goal is to provide a consistent and efficient self-exclusion experience that addresses one of the long-standing challenges of online gaming: requiring players to opt out individually on multiple websites.

Key features of BetGuard

The new system includes several tools aimed at simplifying and strengthening self-exclusion:

A dedicated online portal allowing individuals aged 19+ to complete the process in just a few minutes.

Coverage across all regulated iGaming platforms operating in Ontario, including offerings from Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.

Flexible exclusion periods, including six months, one year, five years, or customized timeframes.

Automatic suppression of direct marketing communications from operators.

Access to a dedicated customer support line.

Strengthening safeguards in Ontario’s regulated market

The launch of BetGuard reflects a coordinated effort between regulators, operators and responsible gaming advocates to offer stronger protections than those available in unregulated environments.

Ontario continues to position its regulated market around player safety while maintaining growth. The province’s open iGaming framework generated approximately $262 million in revenue during fiscal year 2024–25, funds that have been reinvested across Ontario.

In parallel, the provincial government has invested more than $421 million since 2018 into gambling education programs, support services, awareness campaigns and responsible gaming research initiatives.

Focus on sustainability and player wellbeing

The introduction of BetGuard reinforces a growing industry trend toward proactive responsible gaming measures. By offering a single point of access for self-exclusion across the entire market, Ontario aims to provide players with greater control and support while continuing to develop a sustainable and regulated online gaming ecosystem.