According to a recent study, the majority of online gamblers in Ontario are choosing to use regulated market sites. This finding comes as the province continues to grapple with the issue of online gambling and its impact on society.
The study, conducted by the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC), surveyed over 2,000 online gamblers in Ontario. It found that 72% of respondents reported using regulated market sites, while only 28% said they used unregulated sites.
This is a significant shift from previous years, where the majority of online gamblers were using unregulated sites. The RGC attributes this change to the increased awareness and education around the risks of using unregulated sites, as well as the efforts of the government to promote regulated market sites.
The study also revealed that the most popular form of online gambling in Ontario is sports betting, with 64% of respondents reporting that they have placed bets on sports events. This was followed by online casino games, which were played by 49% of respondents.
While the majority of online gamblers are using regulated market sites, the study also highlighted some concerning trends. It found that 20% of respondents reported spending more money on online gambling during the pandemic, and 14% said they have increased their frequency of gambling.
These findings raise concerns about the potential for increased problem gambling during the pandemic. The RGC is urging the government to continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to protect vulnerable individuals.
In response to the study, the Ontario government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible gambling and protecting consumers. It has also announced plans to launch a new online gambling platform in the province, which will be regulated and offer a safe and secure environment for players.
Overall, the study indicates that the efforts to promote regulated market sites in Ontario are having a positive impact. However, it also highlights the need for continued education and support for responsible gambling practices, especially during these challenging times.
