Self-Exclusion – How It Works?

Updated: 15.11.2024

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As online gambling in Canada continues to grow in popularity, it's essential to be aware of options for self-exclusion. Many casino players apply for the program each year. While going to casinos and other places to gamble may be a fun diversion for some, gambling addiction is still a common reoccurrence. We'll cover the topic of self-exclusion, what it is, and how it works.

If I Apply for Self-Exclusion, Am I Considered a Problem Gambler?

For those who identify as problem gamblers, the self-exclusion program offers support. It’s an option for gamblers concerned that they are gambling more frequently than they should be. Self-exclusion usually is the last option for compulsive gamblers who have exhausted their cash flow and amassed debt. However, self-exclusion does not require a financial disaster before applying.

When you enroll in a self-exclusion program, you agree not to go to any gambling facility. Off-track betting shops, casinos, and racetracks are all examples of this. Self-exclusion programs do not cover illegal or unregistered types of betting.

Who Is Most Likely to Self-Exclude?

Case studies provide insights into the percentage of gamblers who deliberately self-exclude. A recent study investigated problem gambling in Ontario, Canada. The research also included self-exclusion programs.

Gambling legalization has increased the risk of problem gambling in a community by 1-2% of the general population, according to studies. As of 2015, 17,860 Ontarians took part in the voluntary self-exclusion program. Therefore, the population consists of the following subgroups:

The population of Ontario is 13.6 million people
The estimated number of potential problem players in Ontario (1.5% of the population of 13.6 million) is 204,000
Volunteers in Ontario's self-exclusion programmes total about 18,000

Based on these figures, around 9% of prospective problem gamblers prefer to self-exclude. In Ontario, the citizens of the towns with gambling facilities are the most impacted.

How Successful Is Self-Exclusion?

More research would benefit self-exclusion. Yet, the accessible data suggest some general themes. Banning self-exclusion would not be an efficient solution.

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) records show that about 1,500 to 2,000 OLG self-exclusion program members try to access OLG gaming rooms yearly. More than 11% of participants attempt an annual self-exclusion agreement violation. The 11% figure does not reflect the number of people who broke the law but went unpunished. The number of trespasses a volunteer commits before they are detected does not count.

As a result, many trespassing offenses may occur in areas where residents have chosen to self-exclude.

When Is It Necessary to Self-Exclude, and Why?

Several signs indicate that it is time for you to self-exclude, including the following:

When you bet, you aren't having as much fun as you used to
Your gambling causes problems with your finances, health, or relationships
When taking a break would benefit you
You or those around you experience stress due to gambling. When the impulse to gamble becomes impossible to resist, you realize it's time to make a change
You have the impression that gambling has "taken over" many aspects of your life and is causing you struggles on multiple levels, including physically, emotionally, and psychologically
You focus on recovering the money that you have spent

How Is Self-Exclusion Enforced?

Self-exclusion is casino enforced. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation's (OLG) approach involves facial recognition. In Ontario, self-exclusion requires signing trespassing agreements. Once you are on the casino self-exclusion list, biometric facial recognition technology identifies program members upon entrance in facilities.

Biometric facial recognition systems use the participant's face as a "fingerprint" to identify them. The software scans the person's facial characteristics and, if a match is found, warns the casino security officer of the approaching infringement. The casino's security personnel must then follow the rules and conditions of the self-exclusion program.

How to Cancel Self-Exclusion in Ontario?

After the minimum agreed period of self-exclusion has passed, you are eligible to withdraw from the program. Self-exclusion removal request will then be processed by the respective authority.

To revoke your self-exclusion, you need to contact the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline or the responsible authority managing the program.
The contact information for the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline is:
- Phone: 1-855-978-7529
- Website: Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation

Conclusion

Self-exclusion programs are an essential component of gambling harm reduction. Although they have existed since 1996, very few in-depth studies have been conducted to investigate their effects. Some evidence suggests that self-exclusion programs are typically beneficial for problem gamers by lowering gaming activity.

It is necessary to continue creating more successful self-exclusion programs. It is also essential to examine tailored programs and consider factors such as gender, age, and cultural variations. To ensure a safe gaming experience, check out our best online casino reviews —casinos that rate highly often have proficient, responsible gambling tools, including effective self-exclusion options for players in need.