Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Stake Canada, we believe that online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While we strive to provide an enjoyable experience, it's important to understand that the odds always favor the house in the long run.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Set limits on how much time and money you spend, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Canada is restricted to individuals who are 18 years of age or older (or the applicable legal age in your province). Stake Canada verifies the age and identity of all users in accordance with Canadian gaming regulations.
If you are under the legal age, we strongly encourage you not to access gaming platforms. Parents and guardians are encouraged to implement parental controls and monitor online activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, food, or other essential expenses
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time and money spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or school due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or depression related to gambling outcomes
- Failed attempts to control or stop gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
If you experience any of these warning signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Stake Canada provides several tools to help you maintain control of your gaming activity:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a defined period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Time-Out: Take a break from your account for a predetermined period
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from your account and all Stake Canada services
We encourage all players to use these tools proactively to manage their gaming activity responsibly.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available through the following organizations:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Dedicated to reducing gambling-related harms in Ontario and across Canada
www.responsiblegambling.org - Problem Gambling Services (Provincial) – Most Canadian provinces offer free, confidential counselling and support services. Contact your provincial health ministry or search "problem gambling services [your province]"
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Free support for problem gamblers and their families
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Free professional counselling service
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – Helpline and resources for problem gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
Get Help Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help immediately. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available 24/7.
You can:
- Contact a counselor through your provincial problem gambling service
- Call the Responsible Gambling Council for information and referrals
- Use Stake Canada's self-exclusion tools to take immediate action
- Speak with a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your well-being is more important than any game.