Responsible Gaming Guide for PokerStars Canada

Core Philosophy

Gambling at PokerStars is intended for entertainment purposes only and should never be considered a source of income or financial solution. We believe that gaming should be a fun and enjoyable activity, and it is essential for players to approach gambling with a clear understanding of the risks involved. Our aim is to provide a safe and responsible gaming environment where players can enjoy their gaming experience while maintaining control over their activities.

Self-Control Tools

PokerStars offers a variety of responsible gambling 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 they can deposit into their accounts, helping to control spending.
Loss Limits: This feature allows players to set limits on the amount they can lose in a specified period, promoting responsible gaming behavior.
Wagering Limits: Players can establish limits on the amount they wager, ensuring that they do not exceed their intended budget.
Session Time Limits: PokerStars enables players to set limits on the duration of their gaming sessions, encouraging breaks and reducing the risk of excessive play.
Cooling-Off Periods: Players can choose to take a temporary break from gambling by setting a cooling-off period, allowing them to step back and reassess their gaming habits.
Self-Exclusion Options: For players who feel they need a longer break, PokerStars provides self-exclusion options, allowing them to suspend their accounts for a specified period or indefinitely.

Self-Assessment

To help players identify early signs of problematic gambling behavior, we encourage reflection through the following questions:

Do you often gamble more than you can afford to lose?
Have you ever felt the need to gamble with larger amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement?
Do you find yourself chasing losses by gambling more after losing?
Have you noticed any changes in your mood or stress levels when you gamble?
Do you often gamble to escape from personal issues or to alleviate feelings of anxiety or depression?
Have you lied to friends or family about your gambling activities?
Do you feel guilty or ashamed after gambling?
Has gambling affected your relationships, work, or finances?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it may be a sign that you should reassess your gambling habits and consider using the responsible gaming tools available at PokerStars.

Protection of Minors

PokerStars is committed to preventing underage access to its gaming services. We implement strict safeguards and procedures to ensure that only individuals of legal age can participate in our games. These measures include:

Age Verification: Players must provide accurate information during the registration process, including their date of birth, to confirm they meet the legal age requirements.
KYC Checks: Know Your Customer (KYC) checks are conducted to verify the identity of players, ensuring that all participants are of legal age. This process includes the collection of documentation such as identification cards or passports.

We take these responsibilities seriously and continuously monitor and improve our procedures to protect minors from gambling.

External Help

Recognizing that some players may need additional support, PokerStars encourages individuals to reach out to professional support organizations. Available resources in Canada include:

GamCare: Provides information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.
BeGambleAware: Offers a wide range of resources and support services for individuals seeking guidance on responsible gambling.
Local Support Services: Various local organizations provide counseling and support for individuals experiencing gambling-related issues. Players are encouraged to seek out these services for assistance.

Early Warning Signs of Problematic Gambling Behavior

Several early warning signs may indicate that a player is developing problematic gambling behavior:

Increasing frequency of play or extended gaming sessions.
Relying on gambling as a primary source of entertainment or emotional relief.
Neglecting responsibilities, such as work or personal relationships, due to gambling.
Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling activities.
Feeling restless or irritable when unable to gamble.

Being aware of these signs can help players take proactive measures to maintain control over their gambling activities.

Taking Immediate Action

If players feel they are losing control over their gambling, it is crucial to take immediate action. Here are steps players can consider:

Review and adjust personal limits using the self-control tools available on PokerStars.
Take a break from gambling activities through temporarily suspending play or utilizing self-exclusion options.
Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for support and discuss any concerns about gambling behavior.
Contact professional support organizations for guidance and assistance.

Account Restriction and Self-Exclusion Mechanisms

PokerStars provides players with the ability to restrict their accounts or self-exclude for a specific duration. This mechanism is designed to support players in taking a step back from gambling when needed. Players can easily initiate self-exclusion through their account settings, and they will receive confirmation of the action taken. During the self-exclusion period, players will not have access to their accounts, ensuring a complete break from gaming activities.

Emphasis on Personal Responsibility

At PokerStars, we believe in the importance of personal responsibility in gambling. Players are encouraged to take control of their gaming activities and make informed decisions. We provide a range of responsible gambling tools to empower players to set their limits and manage their gaming experience actively. It is essential for players to remain aware of their gambling habits and to utilize the available resources to ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming experience.

Confidentiality and Non-Judgmental Support

PokerStars is committed to providing a confidential and non-judgmental support approach for players seeking help with their gambling behavior. We understand that discussing gambling-related issues can be challenging, and we encourage players to reach out for assistance without fear of judgment. Our support services are designed to respect player privacy and provide the necessary resources to promote responsible gaming.

The Responsible Gaming Guide at PokerStars aims to create a safe environment for players and encourages a balanced approach to gambling. By understanding the risks, utilizing available tools, and seeking support when needed, players can enjoy a responsible gaming experience.