B.C. Issues Warning Over Sophisticated Online Casino Scams

The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), entrusted with overseeing regulated gambling in the Western province, has issued a cautionary alert regarding newly emerging online casino scams. According to the regulatory body, a fresh wave of deceptive advertisements is circulating, enticing individuals to divulge personal information under the guise of commercials from licensed provincial casinos.

The BCLC, a government-run entity responsible for managing casino and lottery operations in British Columbia, serves as the sole authorised platform for online gaming and sports betting in the province through PlayNow.com. Consequently, any website or platform purporting to represent provincial casinos other than PlayNow.com is deemed illegitimate and likely a scam.

Rising Incidence of Scams

In an official statement, the BCLC outlined that scammers are leveraging social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to lure prospective gamblers with promises of exclusive bonuses and promotions in exchange for registering financial details on fraudulent websites or apps. The Crown corporation cautioned that these deceptive advertisements often utilise logos or exterior imagery from authentic provincial casinos.

Emphasising the lack of affiliation between such advertisements or websites and the Crown or local casinos, the BCLC reiterated that PlayNow, along with its official mobile apps, including BCLC Lotto!, PlayNow Poker BC, and PlayNow BC Sportsbook, represent the sole legal online gaming options. Additionally, all provincially operated social media accounts are verified with a checkmark.

While efforts are underway to remove these fraudulent posts, the BCLC urges residents to remain vigilant against these sophisticated and predatory scams. It stresses that verified BCLC websites and apps will never request individuals' social insurance numbers, banking information, or credit card details to claim prizes from provincial casinos.

Moreover, individuals should be wary of any website or app requesting payment of fees or taxes on a prize, as these are indicative of fraudulent activity. For those uncertain about the legitimacy of a website, advertisement, or app, the BCLC encourages contacting them directly at 1-866-815-0222 or utilising the live chat function available online at corporate.bclc.com or PlayNow.com for verification.

Recognised for Player Protection Efforts

In January 2024, the BCLC proudly announced its Level 4 certification from the World Lottery Association, marking its dedication to player health programming. This recognition, the highest attainable level granted by the WLA's Independent Assessment Panel, underscores the corporation's commitment to safeguarding players' interests.

These player protection endeavours coincide with a record-breaking fiscal year 2022-23, as highlighted in the latest Annual Service Plan Report and Accountability Disclosure Report. Notably, the BCLC generated a record net income of CA$1.636 billion, with CA$1.624 billion allocated to the province and CA$12 million to the federal government.