Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At pkar.org, we believe that online gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Casino games are games of chance, and the house always has a mathematical advantage. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and do not view gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Play responsibly, set limits, and know when to stop.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age or the legal age for gambling in your province to access and use online casinos. In Canada, the legal gambling age varies by province (18 in some provinces, 19 in others). It is your responsibility to verify that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before registering or placing any wagers.
Under-age gambling is illegal and harmful. If you are under the legal age, please do not participate in online gaming.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know?
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your gambling secret from family or friends
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Increasing bets: Needing to bet more money to get the same level of excitement
- Loss of control: Unable to stop gambling or stick to set limits
- Financial problems: Borrowing money, using credit, or experiencing debt because of gambling
- Mood changes: Feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed when not gambling
- Relationship strain: Gambling is causing conflict with family, friends, or partners
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain
- Failed attempts to stop: Trying unsuccessfully to reduce or quit gambling
If you are experiencing any of these signs, help is available. Please reach out to a support organization.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection Features
Most responsible online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you are willing to lose during a session or time period
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic logout after a certain amount of playing time
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during play to remind you of how long and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a set period (days, weeks, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools proactively. If you cannot control your gambling, self-exclusion is a powerful first step toward recovery.
Support Organizations in Canada & Internationally
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available 24/7:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario): www.responsiblegambling.org
- Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario: Provides assessment and treatment resources
- Gamblers Anonymous: Free peer support meetings across Canada
International Support (English-Speaking)
- United Kingdom - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk | Phone: 0808 8020 133
- United Kingdom - GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org | 1-800-522-4700
All support services are confidential, free, and non-judgmental. Reach out today—recovery is possible.
If You Need Help, Seek It Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects your health, finances, and relationships. You are not alone, and help is available.
Whether you're experiencing warning signs yourself or concerned about someone else, contact a support organization immediately. Recovery is possible with the right support.
Remember: Gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it's no longer fun, it's time to seek help.