The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has issued a CAD 54,000 fine to the operator of Casino Days, citing a deceptive bonus promotion that allegedly misled players and posed unnecessary risk. The decision follows an investigation triggered by a player complaint, in which over CAD 8,500 in winnings were reportedly withheld.
The promotion in question offered new users up to CAD 2,000 as a welcome bonus. However, AGCO’s review found that the offer included highly restrictive and unclear terms — including a CAD 2,000 deposit, wagering 35x the amount (CAD 70,000), maintaining a bet limit of CAD 2, and completing all requirements within seven days.
Regulator Flags Unattainable Conditions
According to AGCO findings, the average player would need to lose nearly CAD 3,640 in just one week to qualify for the full bonus. Compounding concerns, the terms were reportedly hidden behind multiple layers of links, violating Ontario’s requirement for clear and accessible promotional conditions.
Ontario regulations prohibit bonus offers that are unattainable without significant losses or that present financial or emotional risks to players. AGCO concluded that Casino Days breached multiple standards, leading to the administrative penalty. The operator has the option to appeal through the Licence Appeal Tribunal.
Player Protection Takes Priority
Commenting on the case, AGCO CEO and registrar Karin Schnarr reaffirmed the regulator’s stance: “Player protection is a non-negotiable priority.” She added that offers requiring substantial loss for perceived gain are inherently unfair and undermine the province’s regulated gambling framework.
The penalty serves as a reminder to licensed operators of their responsibility to promote transparent and responsible gambling practices.
Source: https://www.gamblingnews.com/news/agco-fines-casino-days-for-misleading-players-with-bonus-offer/
