Responsible Gaming Guide for PokerStars in Canada

Core Philosophy

Gambling at PokerStars is intended for entertainment purposes only. It should never be viewed as a source of income or a financial solution. Players are encouraged to enjoy gaming responsibly, understanding that losses are an inherent part of gambling. The primary goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment where players can engage in their favorite games while maintaining control over their gaming activities.

Self-Control Tools

PokerStars offers a variety of responsible gambling tools to help players manage their gaming experience. These tools are designed to promote a healthy relationship with gambling and to provide players with the means to maintain control.

Deposit Limits: Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to control how much money they can add to their accounts.
Loss Limits: This feature allows players to specify the maximum amount they are willing to lose within a certain timeframe, helping to prevent excessive losses.
Wagering Limits: Players can set limits on how much they can wager, ensuring that they do not bet more than they can afford.
Session Time Limits: This tool enables players to limit the amount of time they can spend playing in a single session, promoting responsible time management.
Cooling-Off Periods: Players can take a break from gambling by initiating a cooling-off period, during which they cannot access their accounts.
Self-Exclusion Options: For players who need a longer break, PokerStars provides self-exclusion options that allow them to voluntarily suspend their accounts for a set period.

Self-Assessment

To help players identify early signs of problematic gambling behavior, PokerStars encourages self-reflection through the following questions:

Do I often gamble to escape from my problems or relieve feelings of anxiety or depression?
Have I ever lied to family or friends about how much I gamble?
Do I feel the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement?
Have I borrowed money or sold personal items to fund my gambling?
Do I often chase my losses, believing that I can win back what I have lost?
Have I experienced feelings of guilt or remorse after gambling?
Has gambling negatively affected my relationships, work, or finances?

Players who answer “yes” to any of these questions may benefit from additional support or a review of their gambling habits.

Protection of Minors

PokerStars is committed to preventing underage gambling and has implemented several safeguards to protect minors. The following procedures are in place:

Age Verification: All players must undergo age verification to ensure they are of legal gambling age before accessing the platform.
KYC Checks: Know Your Customer (KYC) checks are conducted to verify the identity of players and confirm their age, further preventing access to minors.
Account Restrictions: Any accounts suspected of being held by individuals under the legal gambling age are immediately suspended and investigated.

External Help

PokerStars recognizes the importance of support and resources for players who may be experiencing gambling-related issues. Players can access various professional support organizations, including:

GamCare: Offers information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.
BeGambleAware: Provides resources and support for individuals seeking help with gambling problems.
Local Support Services: Players in Canada can access local resources and helplines tailored to their specific needs.

Early Warning Signs of Problematic Gambling Behavior

Recognizing the early warning signs of problematic gambling behavior is crucial for timely intervention. Some common signs include:

Increased frequency of gambling activities.
Neglecting personal or professional responsibilities due to gambling.
Spending more time and money on gambling than initially intended.
Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling.
Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling.

If players notice these signs in themselves, it is essential to take immediate action.

Immediate Action Steps

If players feel they are losing control over their gambling, they should consider the following immediate actions:

Utilize self-control tools available on the PokerStars platform to set limits or take a break.
Reach out to a trusted friend or family member to discuss their gambling habits.
Contact a professional support service for guidance and assistance.
Consider using the self-exclusion option to take a longer break from gambling.

Account Restriction and Self-Exclusion Mechanisms

PokerStars provides players with the ability to restrict their accounts or self-exclude for various durations. This mechanism is designed to empower players to take control of their gambling behavior. When a player chooses to self-exclude:

They will be unable to access their account during the selected period.
All promotional materials will be ceased during this time.
Players are encouraged to seek support from professional organizations while taking this step.

Emphasis on Personal Responsibility

At PokerStars, personal responsibility is paramount. Players are encouraged to take ownership of their gambling habits and to use the available tools to support responsible gaming. The platform is designed to promote a safe environment, but ultimately, it is the responsibility of each player to gamble within their means.

Confidentiality and Non-Judgmental Support Approach

PokerStars is committed to providing a confidential and non-judgmental support approach for all players. Any concerns about gambling behavior are treated with respect and discretion. Players can feel secure in seeking help or utilizing responsible gambling tools without fear of judgment or stigma.

By cultivating a culture of responsible gaming, PokerStars aims to create a safe and enjoyable online gambling experience for all its players in Canada.