MarketingTracer SEO Dashboard, created for webmasters and agencies. But she has no money to retire and expects to work until I drop.. Targeting compulsive gamblers is just not on. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"type":"cta","buttonText":"Sign Up Now","buttonLink":"/emails.html?nsrc=article-inline-business","description":"Read the business news and analysis that matters most every morning, including the latest on what the coronavirus means for you, in our Star Business email newsletter. Headline: SEC Charges Former Employee of Online Gambling Company with Insider Trading: Release No. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Raymond Kahnert, a spokesperson for the AGCO, said confirmation of the insiders allegations would be a serious violation of the rules that could lead to sanctions including monetary penalties or suspensions or revocations of registrations.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"There is an explicit standard forbidding operators from targeting high-risk individuals including youth, self-excluded players, and those at potential risk of gambling-related harms, Kahnert said. Wong-Tam demands answers from province to find out, OLG quietly transformed dozens of bingo halls into de facto casinos, despite slot machine ban, This copy is for your personal non-commercial use only. Get information on latest national and international events & more. DraftKings, PointsBet and FanDuel had each hired at least one or two, and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp., the crown corporation that has offered online betting for eight years and launched a sportsbook last year, also had four employees who work on VIP customer care, according to LinkedIn. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"The OLG said players are ineligible for its VIP program if they have taken a short-term break, have self-excluded or have a high-risk rating on BetBuddy, an artificial-intelligence program it uses to identify at-risk players. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Maximize value from our existing VIP players while cultivating new VIP players and build one-to-one relationships with top VIP customers, said a now expired BetMGM posting that also emphasized generating online gaming revenue, upselling content to VIPs and offering complimentary services/offers to players where appropriate.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"A job ad from theScore, the Toronto-based company now owned by U.S. based Penn Entertainment, said account managers would be responsible for a portfolio of 200 to 250 of the most valuable user(s) of theScore Bet, and promised, youll work with high net worth clients to deliver top-tier experiences, establishing personalized relationships, respond quickly to their needs and address any issues that may arise.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"The pull of perks","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"On top of building rapport and hosting clients at events, the industry insider who spoke with the Star said the programs the person is familiar with use bonuses to encourage customers to keep spending. They all said their VIP programs comply with AGCO regulations, follow anti-money laundering best practices and do not target compulsive gamblers. Freebies such as bet bonuses and invitations to private suites at major sports games are meant to make the clients feel special, the insider said, adding, compulsive gamblers have a strong inner urge to be a big shot or at least be perceived as being big shots.. Insider says two gambling companies operating in Ontario actively tried to dissuade high-spending players referred to as degenerates from self-excluding. These schemes work. Maximize value from our existing VIP players while cultivating new VIP players and build one-to-one relationships with top VIP customers, said a now expired BetMGM posting that also emphasized generating online gaming revenue, upselling content to VIPs and offering complimentary services/offers to players where appropriate., A job ad from theScore, the Toronto-based company now owned by U.S. based Penn Entertainment, said account managers would be responsible for a portfolio of 200 to 250 of the most valuable user(s) of theScore Bet, and promised, youll work with high net worth clients to deliver top-tier experiences, establishing personalized relationships, respond quickly to their needs and address any issues that may arise.. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"I think (Ontario regulators) are nave if theyre not taking action against VIP practices, particularly when they know how these companies operate in other markets, said Matt Zarb-Cousin, who runs the U.K. non-profit campaign Clean Up Gambling and co-founded gambling blocking software company Gamban. Still, in other parts of the world, regulators have put less faith in responsible gambling protections alone: In recent years, Denmark, Sweden, Spain and parts of Australia have put limits on gambling promotions, in some cases capping the amounts, banning them, only allowing initial sign-up bonuses or not allowing sign-up bonuses at all. Gaskell oversees gambling addiction clinics throughout Northern England and said many of the people hes counselled told him the years of their most substantial gambling problems were when they were on the VIP schemes.. : 2022-104 Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, a lobby group that represents both land-based casinos and online betting companies, said he does not believe that VIP programs dissuade players seeking to self-exclude nor that they target compulsive gamblers. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"OLG spokesperson Tony Bitonti said its VIP hosts have training on how to recognize RG (responsible gambling) red flags that enables them to communicate effectively with players who may be experiencing harm from gambling.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"The other operators also referenced tools for players to set limits, implement cooling-off periods and self-exclude from their sites. Industry and gambling regulator counter that Ontario rules are world-class and protect players. Six of the top 10 legal gambling brands by popularity, ranked by Ontario respondents in a survey published in June by consulting and consumer research company Betting Hero, have hired Canadian employees for jobs related to VIP programs, according to LinkedIn profiles (such profiles do not provide a definitive list of employees but do offer a sense of the companies hiring practices). OLG spokesperson Tony Bitonti said its VIP hosts have training on how to recognize RG (responsible gambling) red flags that enables them to communicate effectively with players who may be experiencing harm from gambling.. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"In the case, Sam A. Antar alleges he gambled for days on end at times, placing more than 100,000 bets over nine months on websites and in casinos run by MGM and related companies including BetMGM. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Kahnert said inducements must be clear and not misleading, operators are required to proactively monitor individual player behaviour for signs of potential gambling-related harm, and to intervene appropriately by taking steps such as calling the player or cutting off their account. "Sinc It is the working-class person who actually finds it addictive who gets taken here. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"There are no specific rules that require operators to check that players can actually afford what theyre spending. Its the first Canadian province to do so. a report last year proposing provincial gambling reforms. He added that the gambling regulator would welcome such a complaint, which would allow it to make information requests and conduct regulatory investigations to determine whether any allegations are founded.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"When it comes to bonuses and inducements to gamble more generally, Kahnert said that while they are permitted, Ontarios rules still include many other measures to protect players. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. The other operators also referenced tools for players to set limits, implement cooling-off periods and self-exclude from their sites. Call Us: + 1-800-405-0844. With most gamblers now placing their bets via computers and smartphones, he said the industry uses algorithms to profile and then forensically focus on the loss-making customers, targeting them with push marketing, emails and texts. To order copies of expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Toronto ","relatedLinks":[", Ontarios new online betting market sees revenue of $162 million in first three months, Did the OLG break its promise not to allow slot machines in bingo halls? ","shortSeoGoogleHead":"How Ontario gambling sites allegedly keep VIPs spending high","canonicalUrl":"https://www.thestar.com/business/2022/11/25/insider-alleges-ontario-gambling-vip-programs-aim-to-stop-high-spenders-from-quitting-even-when-they-want-to.html","seoDescription":"Insider says two gambling companies operating in Ontario actively tried to dissuade high-spending players referred to as degenerates from self-excluding. Chrissy Boyce was in her fifties when she discovered online slots. Breaking news in Singapore and Asia, top stories from around the world; business, sport, lifestyle, technology, health and commentary sections. : 2022-105 Published date grouping: June 2022 Date: June 13, 2022: Headline: Schwab Subsidiaries Misled Robo-Adviser Clients about Absence of Hidden Fees: Release No. The ban on public advertising of promos is only the second such ban implemented worldwide, he said (the AGCO has already issued several fines to operators for infractions related to marketing promos). Raymond Kahnert, a spokesperson for the AGCO, said confirmation of the insiders allegations would be a serious violation of the rules that could lead to sanctions including monetary penalties or suspensions or revocations of registrations., There is an explicit standard forbidding operators from targeting high-risk individuals including youth, self-excluded players, and those at potential risk of gambling-related harms, Kahnert said. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"TheScore, BetMGM, PointsBet and the OLG provided more detailed responses on the responsible gambling measures they have in place. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"If someone is expressing concerning behaviour, the VIP team is advised to offer tickets to an event or a bonus immediately. WebNews about Chicago Bears, Cubs, Bulls, White Sox, Blackhawks, Fire from the Chicago Tribune, including latest injury reports, roster moves, trades, scores and analysis, photos and highlights. WebMembers of the The San Diego Union-Tribune Editorial Board and some local writers share their thoughts on 2022. WebMay 11th, 2017; 113; Introducing Yahoos Neurodiversity Employee Resource Group. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"The Ontario Medical Association told the Star it cautions against the use of any marketing programs that entice, encourage and/or reward greater gambling spending, adding that VIP programs are likely to affect problem gamblers who cant afford the increased spending. WebWe would like to show you a description here but the site wont allow us. Job ads for VIP account manager roles posted by theScore and BetMGM indicate the responsibilities include developing personal relationships with clients and hosting them at events. It is the working-class person who actually finds it addictive who gets taken here. They were my best friend, and thats really how it felt.. (The study was undertaken by the National Centre for Social Research and the University of Liverpool and surveyed 140,000 accounts with seven online gambling companies in the U.K.). Industry and gambling regulator counter that Ontario rules are world-class and protect players. In the case, Sam A. Antar alleges he gambled for days on end at times, placing more than 100,000 bets over nine months on websites and in casinos run by MGM and related companies including BetMGM. Daily U.S. military news updates including military gear and equipment, breaking news, international news and more. Star Newspapers Limited and/or its licensors. It wasnt long before Boyce, who lives in southern England, was crowned a VIP. rights reserved. This is not a practice thats undertaken, he said. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, obtained by the Guardian newspaper using freedom of information laws, 2018 study by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation. Players can also use self-exclusion tools to take breaks from play. Become a Client Plans & Pricing. Burns of the CGA said Ontario has taken a reasonable approach by curtailing advertising but still allowing promotions, which many customers enjoy and seek out, adding that appropriate bonusing and incentives is part of the industry, like any other business that offers a loyalty program. Theyre effective from a business point of view and they do make customers much more loyal to that brand, said Matt Gaskell, clinical lead and consultant psychologist for Englands National Health Service Northern Gambling Service. When players deposit their own money into a gambling account, companies often match a certain percentage of that with credit to be used for free bets.. WebFind out why Insider Intelligence is right for your businesssubmit your information to have a representative reach out to you with more on becoming a client. ","url":"/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg","sizes":{"1:1":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/7VVMmg7o9rvD3Z_EF9700WHYtrU=/0x0:1200x800/100x100/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg"},"3:2":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/cqpV_TZF1wc1AdmLdJQJFEapYjI=/0x0:1200x800/114x76/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg","medium":"https://images.thestar.com/ZjlbCywHkDMatFFNk6uAnNoCyyg=/0x0:1200x800/330x220/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg","large":"https://images.thestar.com/gJNKs37ffhLbhpY5P-qxlxaTn5k=/0x0:1200x800/690x460/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg"},"21:9":{"large":"https://images.thestar.com/2KcKZDdUeKcXCKbgjY8KMaYpS-Q=/0x0:1200x800/1080x460/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg"}},"nonWebPSizes":{"1:1":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/OSIGLzcY7fAud41svHmluk9ivHo=/0x0:1200x800/100x100/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg"},"3:2":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/OCDNpRk7xe1Be2yMO1BNLKsRyiQ=/0x0:1200x800/114x76/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg","medium":"https://images.thestar.com/o2Tqsj4VLw0OdwbjvqNCPLhAu6I=/0x0:1200x800/330x220/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg","large":"https://images.thestar.com/aiNNG59_Ogid8sQtLl4xVXrmMvs=/0x0:1200x800/690x460/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg"},"21:9":{"large":"https://images.thestar.com/9KF7ScxdiwEQsdGeyVm0hz043Tk=/0x0:1200x800/1080x460/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/09/01/wong-tam-demands-answers-from-province-on-vegas-style-gambling-machines-in-bingo-halls/slots_jpg.jpg"}}},"labels":{"section":"Business","trust":null,"special":null},"enableConversations":true,"enableLivechat":false,"publishedepoch":1662026400000},{"url":"/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban.html","assetId":"62cf8b2b-1294-4454-902b-214386f55c8f","headline":"OLG quietly transformed dozens of bingo halls into de facto casinos, despite slot machine ban","abstract":"A money-losing modernization program added hundreds of gaming terminals that look and operate much like slot machines to bingo halls, despite ban","image":{"origImageSize":"1146x1200","cropthumb":"0,0,1146,764","lastmodified":1660599260527,"alt":"These modernized bingo halls have not made money for the province. (The Star is not naming the insider or the programs the person is familiar with because the individual is not permitted to speak publicly about them and could face legal repercussions.). ","title":"Get more business in your inbox"},{"text":"While formal policies and training mandate following responsible gambling rules, the insider said at the operators the person is familiar with, some front-line employees in the trenches are informally encouraged to do everything in their power to retain customers. 4 days ago. ","url":"/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg","sizes":{"1:1":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/Dp-xlu0CG453RZA0GfrmHTPP8YU=/0x0:1146x764/100x100/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg"},"3:2":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/2JbdimGEjLh8LvTr1JCObb3eilk=/0x0:1146x764/114x76/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg","medium":"https://images.thestar.com/GqwSmX1xe6JFSTd-_SEf5MIBoWQ=/0x0:1146x764/330x220/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg","large":"https://images.thestar.com/EGSengD1NFYX1TEUy4zCxBkcuB0=/0x0:1146x764/690x460/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg"},"21:9":{"large":"https://images.thestar.com/L-SwKfmsQn3IGM4d6WrnGW8qTO8=/0x0:1146x764/1080x460/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg"}},"nonWebPSizes":{"1:1":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/AWHH7vkS2TPgzNLX1ZhuATXBBFo=/0x0:1146x764/100x100/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg"},"3:2":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/m68hAgfxX2NoEtlDWXdvGRKCxoU=/0x0:1146x764/114x76/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg","medium":"https://images.thestar.com/t9NhpTpG2TS6TkmMhm5huTlDfKw=/0x0:1146x764/330x220/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg","large":"https://images.thestar.com/HvHLtJzyCDGrTXvv-BWi3Fabk6A=/0x0:1146x764/690x460/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg"},"21:9":{"large":"https://images.thestar.com/PwXAZi6zlp9BVGwHFTr6vnpCUYM=/0x0:1146x764/1080x460/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/08/12/star-investigation-finds-olg-quietly-transformed-dozens-of-bingo-halls-into-de-facto-casinos-despite-slot-machine-ban/cleopatra.jpg"}}},"labels":{"section":"Business","trust":null,"special":{"name":"Star Investigation","type":"special"}},"enableConversations":true,"enableLivechat":false,"publishedepoch":1660329000000}]},{"text":"The Star asked operators whether their VIP programs target compulsive gamblers and how they ensure players can afford to spend what theyre betting and losing. Gambling reform advocates in the U.K. have called for a ban of VIP programs. For example, the OLG said players can set daily, weekly or monthly limits on how much they spend, lose or deposit. Boyce said she became close to her account managers, who would reach out with encouraging messages while depositing bonuses into her account. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"The ban on public advertising of promos is only the second such ban implemented worldwide, he said (the AGCO has already issued several fines to operators for infractions related to marketing promos). Keeping in touch with customers by phone and text is the most problematic form of wagering advertising, according to a 2018 study by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation in Australia. Industry and gambling regulator counter that Ontario rules are world-class and protect players. Industry and gambling regulator counter that Ontario rules are world-class and protect players. To order ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Burns of the CGA said Ontario has taken a reasonable approach by curtailing advertising but still allowing promotions, which many customers enjoy and seek out, adding that appropriate bonusing and incentives is part of the industry, like any other business that offers a loyalty program. WebEarly life and education. Studies from around the world have shown that a relatively small number of gamblers tend to account for an outsized proportion of industry profits. Among Canadians who reported gambling in the previous year, about 875,000 (4.7 per cent) were at low to moderate risk of problem gambling, while about 66,000 (0.3 per cent) were at severe risk, Statistics Canada found. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"For example, the OLG said players can set daily, weekly or monthly limits on how much they spend, lose or deposit. Some are already staffing up their VIP programs. If they dont win, both their original deposit and the bonus are gone. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"NorthStar Bets, a gambling site that was launched by the owners of the Toronto Star, also has a VIP program listed on its website. to colleagues, clients or customers, or inquire about TheScore, BetMGM, PointsBet and the OLG provided more detailed responses on the responsible gambling measures they have in place. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"For his part, Dijkema, from the think tank Cardus, said Ontario should not expect the industry to self-govern programs that, at their core, are designed to get clients to bet more money, noting that the government itself gets 20 per cent of igaming revenue. The Star asked operators whether their VIP programs target compulsive gamblers and how they ensure players can afford to spend what theyre betting and losing. Given their frequent communication with VIP account managers, I would argue the responsible gaming habits of said customers are actually monitored with extra scrutiny, said a PointsBet spokesperson. If gambling is like a drug and for many people it is this is effectively a strengthening of the dose.. Account managers from the betting website showered her with theatre tickets and lavish gift baskets, depositing cash bonuses into her account after shed had a tough night of losses. From the archives: How former ref Tim Donaghy conspired to fix NBA games arguing that he based his picks on insider information. Learn about what technologies are transforming your industry. Wong-Tam demands answers from province to find out","abstract":"Wong-Tam, a former city councillor who voted to approve bingo hall modernization but not slot machines wants to know if the OLG broke promises","image":{"origImageSize":"1200x900","cropthumb":"0,0,1200,800","lastmodified":1662122005493,"alt":"Vegas-style gambling machines that are strikingly similar to slot machines are seen at Delta Bingo on St. Clair Ave. W. in Toronto. Also common with VIP programs, said Gaskell, are bonuses or betting credits. Virtually everyone in a VIP program is an overall net loser, the insider said. WebCNA. I think that the government needs to be far more active in reducing the ability of gambling companies to get access to people and encourage them to gamble more., This is not James Bond, Dijkema said. I think (Ontario regulators) are nave if theyre not taking action against VIP practices, particularly when they know how these companies operate in other markets, said Matt Zarb-Cousin, who runs the U.K. non-profit campaign Clean Up Gambling and co-founded gambling blocking software company Gamban. Period. WebYahoo Entertainment is your source for the latest TV, movies, music, and celebrity news, including interviews, trailers, photos, and first looks. They were the only people that were talking to me. WebRead latest breaking news, updates, and headlines. Some are already staffing up their VIP programs. She sat up late at night in her fathers house, tapping on her laptop in silence (the jangly sound of the animated reels annoyed her) and her spending crept steadily up. Following a bumpy launch week that saw frequent server trouble and bloated player queues, Blizzard has announced that over 25 million Overwatch 2 players have logged on in its first 10 days. For his part, Dijkema, from the think tank Cardus, said Ontario should not expect the industry to self-govern programs that, at their core, are designed to get clients to bet more money, noting that the government itself gets 20 per cent of igaming revenue. However, Kahnert said companies may conduct such checks in order to meet the outcomes set out in the standards (the ACGOs rules)., Strong protections in place, operators say. Industry and gambling regulator counter that Ontario rules are world-class and protect players. Email ESPN Radio Shows Short of that, they say there should be limits on wagers and mandated affordability checks for players. On top of building rapport and hosting clients at events, the industry insider who spoke with the Star said the programs the person is familiar with use bonuses to encourage customers to keep spending. Republication or distribution of this content is permissions/licensing, please go to: www.TorontoStarReprints.com. (BetMGM spokesperson Elisa Richardson said the company could not comment specifically on an active court case but added, We firmly believe that Mr. Antars allegations are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend the case.). WebBaltimore breaking news, sports, weather and traffic from the Baltimore City Paper Short of that, they say there should be limits on wagers and mandated affordability checks for players. Most bonuses, which can run into the thousands of dollars, come with a play-through requirement, meaning the client must gamble a certain amount (sometimes 10 or 20 times the amount of the bonus) before they can withdraw any of their winnings as cash. This can include changing the topic of conversation or taking other steps to dissuade players from self-excluding, a voluntary step taken by the customer that blocks them from placing bets for a predetermined period of time. They wont get any more bonuses, event tickets or other perks if they self-exclude, the insider said, adding that after spending significant amounts with one operator, clients are often reluctant to lose that investment.. The two operators the insider is familiar with are already mining customer data to identify potential VIPs, looking for patterns of high-frequency betting and long-term losers, players who dont stop betting even when they win. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Job ads for VIP account manager roles posted by theScore and BetMGM indicate the responsibilities include developing personal relationships with clients and hosting them at events. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Calls for a ban","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Gambling reform advocates in the U.K. have called for a ban of VIP programs. And thats exactly whats going to happen with these VIP rooms.. Anyone can read Conversations, but to contribute, you should be a registered Torstar account holder. Lonely as I was, and isolated and too ashamed to tell anybody what was going on or how I was feeling, why wouldnt I talk to them? Similar restrictions are needed here in Ontario, the insider told the Star. Burns added that any operator not following the rules risks severe sanctions from the regulator that would outweigh any potential benefit from retaining one VIP customer. And to suggest otherwise is wrong.. Within about five years, shed lost her entire savings, equivalent to almost $1 million in Canadian dollars, and filed for bankruptcy. Its just not done. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Six of the top 10 legal gambling brands by popularity, ranked by Ontario respondents in a survey published in June by consulting and consumer research company Betting Hero, have hired Canadian employees for jobs related to VIP programs, according to LinkedIn profiles (such profiles do not provide a definitive list of employees but do offer a sense of the companies hiring practices). They wont get any more bonuses, event tickets or other perks if they self-exclude, the insider said, adding that after spending significant amounts with one operator, clients are often reluctant to lose that investment.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"A lawsuit filed in New Jersey in September outlines allegations similar to the activities the insider described to the Star. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"TheScore said VIP programs are common in the regulated online gambling business, like many other industries with affluent customers, and that they allow regulated operators to both satisfy customer expectations and ensure players are playing responsibly.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"BetMGM said its VIP hosts are trained and required to not only look for, but also to act, if they observe problematic behaviours by VIP patrons. In such cases, hosts are trained to immediately close the account and escalate the matter to the responsible gambling team.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Given their frequent communication with VIP account managers, I would argue the responsible gaming habits of said customers are actually monitored with extra scrutiny, said a PointsBet spokesperson. It declined to comment for this story. And thats exactly whats going to happen with these VIP rooms.","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"type":"textBreakPoint","insertAt":"contentEndBreakPoint"},{"text":"If you need help with mental health, addiction and problem gambling, you can contact ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600. Wynns father changed the family's last name in 1946 from "Weinberg" to "Wynn" when Steve was 4 WebNews on Japan, Business News, Opinion, Sports, Entertainment and More Spokesperson Andrew Kennedy said the new gambling market has robust measures to protect consumers and will enable more responsible gaming.. WebThe essential tech news of the moment. A lawsuit filed in New Jersey in September outlines allegations similar to the activities the insider described to the Star. The insider said some VIP employees at the two operators are informally encouraged to do everything in their power to retain customers, including taking steps to dissuade high-spending players, internally referred to as degenerates, from using responsible gambling tools to bar themselves from a companys online sites and apps also known as self-excluding. New York Yankees shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa (12) rounds the bases against the Cleveland Guardians during Game 1 of an American League Division baseball series, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022, in New York. Lots of people gamble about two-thirds of Canadians age 15 and older, according to Statistics Canada chipping $5 in to the office lottery pool or putting $20 on the slots. VIP programs should not be allowed at all, said Dijkema, who co-authored a report last year proposing provincial gambling reforms. Now 64 and in recovery for her gambling addiction, Boyce works with the charity GamLEARN sharing her experiences. And let the VIPs know they will lose their VIP status. Newspapers Limited, 8 Spadina Avenue, 10th Floor, Toronto, ON M5V 0S8, BetBuddy, an artificial-intelligence program it uses to identify at-risk players, Ontario, privately run online gambling was made legal just a few months ago, Cardus, a non-partisan, faith-based think tank. Period. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), which regulates gambling, said it has a strong responsible gambling framework in place and that it restricts misleading promotions and requires operators to know their customers and monitor for harmful activity. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Antar claims that he tried to quit multiple times (largely because of technical malfunctions in the online casino game he was playing) but alleges he was convinced to keep going in part because VIP account managers gave him bonus payments that sometimes totalled more than $30,000 (U.S.) per month. Burns said the province has stringent regulations in place to protect players and numerous gambling companies contacted for this story also said they run VIP programs in accordance with responsible gambling standards and do not target compulsive gamblers. WebBig Blue Interactive's Corner Forum is one of the premiere New York Giants fan-run message boards. The OLG said players are ineligible for its VIP program if they have taken a short-term break, have self-excluded or have a high-risk rating on BetBuddy, an artificial-intelligence program it uses to identify at-risk players. Kahnert said inducements must be clear and not misleading, operators are required to proactively monitor individual player behaviour for signs of potential gambling-related harm, and to intervene appropriately by taking steps such as calling the player or cutting off their account. Not for dummies. As of early November, theScore and BetMGM had hired 12 and nine people, respectively, for Canadian VIP programs. And let the VIPs know they will lose their VIP status. He added that the gambling regulator would welcome such a complaint, which would allow it to make information requests and conduct regulatory investigations to determine whether any allegations are founded.. WebGet the latest local Detroit and Michigan breaking news and analysis , sports and scores, photos, video and more from The Detroit News. Steve Wynn was born Stephen Alan Weinberg in New Haven, Connecticut, on January 27, 1942.His father, Michael, owned a chain of bingo parlors in the eastern United States. Here in Ontario, privately run online gambling was made legal just a few months ago, in April. He says its time to ban VIP programs outright. ","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"(BetMGM spokesperson Elisa Richardson said the company could not comment specifically on an active court case but added, We firmly believe that Mr. Antars allegations are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend the case.)","type":"text","isParagraph":true,"isHeading":false},{"text":"Burns of the Canadian Gaming Association said he does not believe that any operators in Ontario are using VIP perks to convince people not to self-exclude or otherwise overlooking players concerns. They said VIP programs are meant to provide high-quality customer service and that hosts and account managers are provided with extensive responsible-gambling training. But using bonuses and other inducements is permitted and companies can market perks directly to players who have landed on a website, signed up for an account or given their consent. Reach her at [email protected]","author":{"author":"Christine Dobby","photo":{"origImageSize":"828x822","lastmodified":2700061000,"url":"/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg","sizes":{"1:1":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/1_iAK0dKPob4UFxnLx9v3f_0zrA=/100x100/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg"},"3:2":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/kC2kKDAAr9HjxrPVab73G-qi0r4=/114x76/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg","medium":"https://images.thestar.com/Ipu6q26Ucqisvkvkcd-yJnIxPVM=/330x220/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg","large":"https://images.thestar.com/JVXXTFdpSGGTP54YoyJq6UI7yGw=/690x460/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg"},"21:9":{"large":"https://images.thestar.com/aFbZfGFeUfkWbVCOpLgGnPiDe1s=/1080x460/smart/filters:format(webp)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg"}},"nonWebPSizes":{"1:1":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/v-swoBYLdUaZxjEbCaxoxkYwc3U=/100x100/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg"},"3:2":{"small":"https://images.thestar.com/QHPxR1CMkAZVt8pKAHt9OrXRS6A=/114x76/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg","medium":"https://images.thestar.com/Ugnu0xcCend0mtGJ6PJ5Nwlw3yg=/330x220/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg","large":"https://images.thestar.com/TUFfrzAjNywUzuFQF9etlJFpko8=/690x460/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg"},"21:9":{"large":"https://images.thestar.com/vTbe2h44aGjVhxmRa8oRTQAaNdA=/1080x460/smart/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/columnist_logos/Dobby_Christine.jpg"}}},"location":"Toronto","tag":"dobby_christine","credit":"Business Reporter","twitterId":"christinedobby ","email":"[email protected]"},"authorPageUrl":"/authors.dobby_christine.html","type":"endnote","isLast":true},{"type":"articleRelatedFooter"},{"type":"shareBar","position":"bottom"},{"type":"trustbar"},{"type":"conversations"}],"assetTags":["brian_dijkema","ontario","ontario_lottery_and_gaming_corporation","gambling_commission","self_exclusion","online_casino","starlock","smg_business","_1_866_531_2600","InHouseArticle_thestar","online_gambling","problem_gambling","gambling","vip_gambling_perks","addicted_online_gambling","online_gambling","gambling_regulation","dobby_christine","gambling_addiction","arc_cov_recovery","online_gambling","entertainment","vip_gambler","online_slots","responsible_gaming","united_kingdom","isle_of_man_gambling_supervision_commission","gambling","arc_cov_economy","algolock"],"seoKeywords":"Arc cov economy,arc cov recovery,gambling,online gambling,gambling addiction,addicted online gambling,online slots,VIP gambler,VIP gambling perks,starlock,smg_business,InHouseArticle_thestar,algolock","excludeInRecommendations":false,"promo":[],"tier":"tier1","related":{"pubdays":0,"strategy":0},"personalizationMetadata":{"inHouseArticle":"true","image":"https://images.thestar.com/6c4CKxV_C30mEh_WfV3C7dPVHeA=/1280x1024/smart/filters:cb(1669930737442)/https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/business/2022/11/25/insider-alleges-ontario-gambling-vip-programs-aim-to-stop-high-spenders-from-quitting-even-when-they-want-to/gambling_vip_print_web.jpg","enableLivechat":"false","images":"https://www.thestar.com/assets/img/thestar-ribbon.png","noShow":"false","enableConversations":"true","description":"Insider says two gambling companies operating in Ontario actively tried to dissuade high-spending players referred to as degenerates from self-excluding. 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