The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has issued directives to over a dozen traditional and digital media companies, urging them to cease promoting offshore gambling operators unauthorized to operate in the province.
The regulatory body specifically mentioned the online gambling site Bodog, operated by Il Nido, as a primary example.
According to AGCO, Bodog continues to target residents of Ontario with gambling advertisements across various media platforms, while operating outside the regulated iGaming framework of the province.
Despite being geographically blocked in provinces like Quebec and Nova Scotia, the site remains accessible to users in Ontario.
AGCO believes that Bodog's exposure on reputable media could mislead consumers into believing the site complies with legal standards.
The iGaming market in Ontario is regulated by AGCO in collaboration with iGaming Ontario, requiring operators to adhere to strict regulatory standards covering game integrity, player protection, anti-money laundering protocols, and data privacy.
AGCO states that advertisements for unregistered sites pose a risk to public safety and distort the principles of a fair market.
Dr. Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar of AGCO, stated: "By refusing to publish advertisements for unregulated, high-risk operators like Bodog, media organizations can demonstrate social responsibility and play a significant role in protecting the people of Ontario."
After 10 racehorses were euthanized at the track by the end of 2024, the regulatory body reached a settlement with Woodbine Entertainment in April 2025. The agreement includes enhanced training, track maintenance, and independent safety assessments.
AGCO expressed its commitment to continue collaborating with domestic and international partners to monitor illegal gambling activities and promote greater compliance in the broader media and advertising sectors.
