Ontario — iCAN Self-Exclusion
Ontario's iGO framework operates the iCAN (iGaming Customer Account Network) self-exclusion programme. A single iCAN registration excludes you from all iGO-registered online gambling sites in Ontario. Exclusion periods range from 1 month to 5 years, with a permanent option.
iCAN registration is managed through participating iGO-registered sites under your account settings, or by contacting the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline. Once registered, all iGO-registered operators are required to block your account and prevent new account creation.
ConnexOntario — Helpline
ConnexOntario is the primary entry point for mental health, addiction, and problem gambling services in Ontario.
- Phone: 1-866-531-2600 (toll-free, 24/7)
- Text: CONNEX to 247247
- Online chat: connexontario.ca
ConnexOntario connects callers to local treatment, counselling, and support services — it does not provide direct counselling itself but coordinates access to the provincial network.
Provincial Resources
| Province | Primary helpline | Self-exclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 | iCAN via iGO-registered sites |
| British Columbia | Responsible & Problem Gambling Program 1-888-795-6111 | BCLC PlayNow self-exclusion |
| Alberta | Alberta Health Services 1-866-332-2322 | AGLC self-exclusion for physical venues |
| Quebec | Jeu: aide et reference 1-800-461-0140 | Espace-jeux self-exclusion |
| All provinces | Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario (PGIO) resources | Varies by province |
GameSense and PlaySmart
GameSense (launched by BCLC in BC, adopted by other provinces) is an educational programme teaching players to understand odds, set limits, and recognise risky gambling behaviour. It emphasises informed choice rather than pure abstinence messaging.
PlaySmart is OLG's Ontario-specific responsible gambling programme, which has been integrated into the iGO framework for online players. PlaySmart provides interactive tools, self-assessment resources, and access to support services.
Tools Available at iGO-Registered Sites
- Deposit limits: daily, weekly, monthly — decreases instant, increases with delay
- Session time limits: set maximum play time per session
- Reality checks: timed reminders showing net session result
- Cool-off periods: temporary account suspension without full exclusion
- Self-exclusion via iCAN: multi-operator exclusion across all iGO-registered sites
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the problem gambling helpline number in Canada?
- In Ontario, call ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600 (toll-free, 24/7). In BC: 1-888-795-6111. In Alberta: 1-866-332-2322. In Quebec: 1-800-461-0140. These lines connect you to local counselling and treatment services.
- How does self-exclusion work in Ontario?
- Ontario's iCAN system allows a single self-exclusion registration to block you from all iGO-registered online gambling sites. Exclusion periods range from 1 month to permanent. Register through your account settings at any iGO-registered site or contact ConnexOntario for assistance.
- Do offshore sites serving Canada have responsible gambling obligations?
- Offshore sites serving non-Ontario Canadian provinces are not subject to Canadian provincial responsible gambling regulation. Reputable operators with MGA or UKGC licences voluntarily maintain strong responsible gambling tools, but enforcement is limited compared to the Ontario iGO framework.