PointsBet reaches settlement for two-day suspension in Ontario

PointsBet Canada has reached a settlement with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to serve a two-day suspension of its online gaming operations in the province. The resolution follows a regulatory proceeding regarding alleged systemic failures to detect and report suspicious wagering patterns linked to the Jontay Porter betting scandal.

The AGCO had initially proposed a five-day suspension, but the term was reduced following negotiations and an appeal by PointsBet to the Licence Appeal Tribunal. The operator had argued that the original sanction was disproportionate, characterizing the issue as an isolated matter stemming from human error.

As part of the agreement, PointsBet must undergo an independent audit of its control mechanisms using a methodology approved by the AGCO and implement corrective measures. While the specific dates for the suspension have not yet been set, the company is responsible for informing its customers of how the downtime will affect account access and transactions.