Responsible Gaming Guide for PokerStars in Canada

Core Philosophy

Gambling at PokerStars is intended solely for entertainment purposes and should never be viewed as a source of income or financial solution. We believe that responsible gaming is essential for ensuring a positive experience for all our players. Players should engage in gaming activities with the understanding that losses are possible and should only gamble with money they can afford to lose. Our commitment to responsible gaming reflects our desire to promote a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Self-Control Tools

To support responsible gambling, PokerStars offers a range of self-control tools designed to help players manage their gaming activities effectively. These tools include:

Deposit Limits: Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on the amount of money they can deposit into their accounts. This helps ensure that players stay within their budget and gamble responsibly.
Loss Limits: This feature allows players to set a cap on the amount they can lose within a specified time frame. If players reach their loss limit, they will not be able to continue wagering until the limit resets.
Wagering Limits: Players can establish limits on the total amount they can wager over a certain period. This helps in managing their gaming expenditure effectively.
Session Time Limits: This option enables players to limit the amount of time they spend playing during a single session. Once the time limit is reached, players will be logged out of their accounts.
Cooling-off Periods: Players can choose to take a break from gambling by setting a cooling-off period. During this time, they will be unable to access their accounts or participate in any gaming activities.
Self-Exclusion Options: For players who feel that they need to take a longer break, PokerStars provides self-exclusion options. Players can voluntarily exclude themselves from their accounts for a specified period, ranging from weeks to months, or even permanently.

Self-Assessment

To help players reflect on their gambling behavior, we encourage the use of the following self-assessment questions:

Do you often gamble to escape from personal problems or to relieve feelings of stress or anxiety?
Have you ever lied to family or friends about how much you gamble or how much money you have lost?
Do you feel compelled to gamble more frequently or with increasing amounts of money?
Have you experienced financial difficulties due to your gambling activities?
Do you frequently chase losses by betting more after losing?
Have you noticed changes in your mood or behavior related to your gambling?
Do you find it hard to stop gambling, even when you want to?
Have you ever borrowed money or sold possessions to fund your gambling?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it may be an early sign of problematic gambling behavior. We encourage you to take action and utilize the support tools available on our platform.

Protection of Minors

PokerStars is committed to preventing underage access to our gaming services. We have implemented strict safeguards and procedures to ensure compliance with legal age requirements. These include:

Age Verification: Players must provide accurate information during registration, including their date of birth. We use advanced verification processes to confirm the age of our players.
KYC Checks: Know Your Customer (KYC) checks are conducted to verify the identity of players. This process helps us ensure that all players are of legal age and meet our eligibility criteria.
Parental Controls: We encourage parents to monitor their children’s online activities. Tools and resources are available to help parents understand the risks associated with online gambling and to restrict access if necessary.

External Help

We understand that gambling can sometimes lead to issues that require professional support. We encourage players to reach out to external organizations for assistance. Some resources available in Canada include:

GamCare: Offers advice, support, and information to anyone affected by gambling. They provide a helpline and online chat services for immediate assistance.
BeGambleAware: Provides information to help people make informed decisions about their gambling, including access to support services.
Local Support Services: Various local organizations across Canada offer support for individuals facing gambling-related issues. We recommend reaching out to these services for personalized help.

Early Warning Signs of Problematic Gambling Behavior

Recognizing the early warning signs of problematic gambling behavior can be crucial in taking timely action. Some common signs include:

Increasing frequency of gambling activities.
Spending more time and money than intended.
Neglecting personal responsibilities or relationships due to gambling.
Experiencing feelings of guilt or shame about gambling habits.
Using gambling as a way to cope with stress or emotional issues.

If you notice any of these signs in yourself, it is important to take immediate action.

Taking Immediate Action

If you feel you are losing control over your gambling, consider the following steps:

Utilize Self-Control Tools: Take advantage of the deposit limits, loss limits, and session time limits available on PokerStars to regain control of your gaming habits.
Take a Break: Use the cooling-off period option to step away from gambling activities for a short time.
Self-Exclusion: If you believe a longer break is necessary, consider using the self-exclusion feature to prevent access to your account.
Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to contact professional support organizations or local services for guidance and assistance.

Account Restriction and Self-Exclusion Mechanisms

PokerStars provides players with the ability to restrict their accounts if they feel it is necessary for their well-being. Players can easily initiate account restrictions through their account settings. In addition, self-exclusion can be requested for varying lengths of time, allowing players to take the necessary steps to protect themselves.

Personal Responsibility and Platform-Supported Protection Tools

At PokerStars, we emphasize personal responsibility when it comes to gambling. While we provide a range of protection tools to assist players, it is ultimately up to each individual to monitor their gambling habits and seek help if needed. Our platform is designed to support responsible gaming, and we encourage players to utilize the available tools to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Confidentiality and Non-Judgmental Support Approach

PokerStars is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of our players. We respect your privacy and provide a non-judgmental approach to support. If you seek help or guidance regarding your gambling behavior, you can do so without fear of judgment. Our goal is to assist you in finding the right resources and support to promote responsible gaming.