AGCO Imposes Fine on theScore Over High-Risk Player Incident

Overview of the Fine Issued to theScore

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), the regulatory body overseeing gambling activities in Ontario, has imposed a fine on one of its major licensed sports betting companies, theScore. This penalty reflects concerns about the operator’s handling of a high-risk gambling customer.

Details of the Incident Involving a High-Risk Player

The fine, totaling CAD 105,000 (approximately $75,300 USD), stems from a situation where a player was permitted to wager over CAD 2.5 million, resulting in losses around CAD 230,000. The individual in question had been active with theScore for about eight months and experienced a significant loss of CAD 100,000 in the initial month of gameplay.

Regulator’s Comments on Player Protection

AGCO Registrar, Dr. Karin Schnarr, emphasized the importance of safeguarding players in the gambling industry. She stated that operators must prioritize player protections as a core responsibility. Failure to do so not only breaks player trust but also jeopardizes the integrity of Ontario’s regulated iGaming environment.

theScore’s Response and Regulatory Actions

While theScore cooperated fully with AGCO’s investigation and has taken measures to prevent future breaches, the regulator deemed the offense serious enough to warrant a financial penalty. The commission highlighted that gambling operators are legally obligated to protect their customers and that lapses in these duties will result in enforcement actions against those who fail to comply.

Specific Concerns Raised by AGCO

AGCO pointed out shortcomings in theScore’s review of the player’s documentation, suggesting that there were signs that should have alerted the company to potential gambling harm. Additionally, the operator failed to intervene appropriately to protect the player, which contributed to the commission’s decision to issue the fine.