iGaming Ontario accused of withholding 2022 problem gambling study, Toronto Star reports

Ontario's iGaming regulator, iGaming Ontario, allegedly kept a problem gambling study out of public view after its results reportedly showed significantly higher rates of harm than the province had anticipated. The claim comes from internal documents obtained by the Toronto Star through a Freedom of Information request.

According to the newspaper, the documents show that executives at iGaming Ontario discussed the research findings and considered ways to prevent information from leaking. The study was commissioned in 2022, around the time the province launched its regulated online gambling market, and was intended to help the agency shape responsible gambling policies for the new sector. The study itself was not among the records released, and the Toronto Star is appealing that decision to Ontario's Information and Privacy Commissioner.

The internal records reportedly describe the findings as "deviating significantly from other research." In a written statement to the newspaper, iGaming Ontario said the study's methodology did not meet the standard required to inform policy development. The research was carried out by accredited researchers using an online survey panel. The agency also reportedly cited potential harm to the province's economic interests as one of its grounds for refusing disclosure.

The story lands as Ontario's regulated online market continues to generate large volumes of betting. iGaming Ontario's 2024-25 annual report put total wagers for the year at CAD 82.7 billion. Private operators offer online casino games and sports betting under the province's regulatory framework.

Concerns about gambling-related harm have grown alongside access to online products. Reports have pointed to rising insolvency, suicide and emergency room visits linked to gambling disorders, with particular worry about men and younger people. In April, the Ontario government partnered with the Responsible Gambling Council on a safer gaming campaign highlighting the higher risk faced by younger men.

Without the full report, independent observers cannot assess the study's methodology, verify the reported rates or compare them with other research. The outcome of the Toronto Star's appeal could determine whether more of the withheld material becomes public. Until then, the study's precise findings and the full reasoning behind the agency's decision remain unclear.