Since the launch of its regulated online gambling market in 2022, Ontario has aimed to curb illegal gambling activities. Recent research conducted by Ipsos reveals that over 90% of gamblers in Ontario are now engaging with legal, regulated platforms.
A recent survey indicates that 91.1% of players are utilizing legal sites, marking a significant increase of 7.4% since 2025. This shift is notable compared to the pre-2022 landscape, where approximately 70% of gamblers were involved with unregulated operators.
The study, commissioned by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario, shows that more than 9 out of 10 Ontarians are gambling legally. The proportion of individuals who reported using only illegal sites has nearly halved in the past year, dropping from 16.3% in 2025 to 8.9% today.
Ontario's Attorney General, Doug Downey, commented on the findings, stating, “The results clearly indicate that regulation is effective. Ontario is leading internationally in maintaining a secure, competitive, and regulated online gaming environment. Just four years ago, our government initiated a modern regulatory framework aimed at safeguarding players, enhancing consumer choice, and addressing illegal operations. We are proud to see our online gaming model continue to foster jobs, innovation, and economic growth throughout the province.”
Since the market's inception, the AGCO and iGaming Ontario have commissioned annual surveys to monitor gambling behaviors among Ontarians. The AGCO utilizes this data to combat remaining illegal gaming activities.
Dr. Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar of AGCO, expressed optimism about the findings, saying, “It’s heartening to observe an increasing number of Ontarians opting for regulated platforms for their online gambling.”
She emphasized that this trend underscores the robustness of Ontario’s regulatory model, which prioritizes player protection. The AGCO is dedicated to addressing the ongoing illegal market and ensuring that regulated operators adhere to Ontario's stringent regulatory standards.
According to AGCO, Ontario’s regulated iGaming market is established on clear and enforceable standards that mandate strong consumer protections, including safeguards for game integrity and responsible gaming practices. In contrast, unregulated sites pose risks to player safety and data security, potentially leading to greater harm and failing to prevent criminal activities like money laundering and match-fixing.
Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, Stan Cho, remarked that the legalization has made players safer. “The rise in Ontarians choosing regulated iGaming sites confirms that we are on the right path toward responsibly expanding the online gaming sector. By focusing on player protections and incorporating responsible gaming measures, our government is dedicated to ensuring a safer experience for players across the province.”
Joseph Hillier, President and CEO of iGaming Ontario, stated that the data illustrates Ontario's success in balancing player protection with choice.