🛡️ Responsible Gaming

Protecting Canadian players since our launch.

⚠️ Need Help Now?

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 — free, confidential, 24/7.

Our Commitment to Safe Play

global-poker.ca takes responsible gaming seriously. While Global Poker uses a sweepstakes model that is legally distinct from traditional gambling, we recognise that any competitive activity involving potential prizes can develop into problematic behaviour for some individuals. This page provides tools, information, and resources to help Canadian players stay in control.

Is It a Problem? Warning Signs

Ask yourself the following questions honestly:

Do you spend more time or Sweep Coins on poker than you intended?
Do you chase losses — playing more to "win back" what you've lost?
Has poker play begun to affect your work, relationships, or finances?
Do you feel anxious, irritable, or restless when you're not playing?
Have you lied to family or friends about how much time you spend playing?
Do you borrow money or sell possessions to fund Gold Coin purchases?
Have you failed at previous attempts to reduce or stop playing?

If you answered "yes" to two or more of these, consider speaking to a professional. The resources below are free and confidential.

Self-Exclusion on Global Poker

Global Poker (VGW Holdings) offers player protection tools accessible through your account settings:

Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on Gold Coin purchases
Session limits: Set a time limit per playing session
Self-exclusion: Request closure of your account for a set period (30 days, 3 months, 6 months, or permanent) — contact Global Poker support at globalpoker.com/support
Reality checks: Enable pop-up reminders showing time elapsed
Cooling-off periods: Temporary 24–72 hour account pauses available on request

Canadian Helplines and Resources

National Helpline

1-800-522-4700

Free · Confidential · 24/7 · English & French

Ontario — ConnexOntario

1-866-531-2600

Mental health, addiction, and housing. Free, 24/7.

BC — BCLC GameSense

1-888-795-6111

Problem gambling support. BC residents.

Alberta — AHS

1-866-332-2322

Alberta Health Services addiction support line.

Tips for Healthy Play

✓Set a strict budget before each session and stop when it's gone

✓Never play when tired, stressed, or under the influence

✓Treat poker as entertainment, not income

✓Take regular breaks every 60–90 minutes

✓Balance playing time with other activities and social commitments

✓Never borrow money to fund Gold Coin purchases

✓Keep track of your play history via your account dashboard

For Friends and Family

If someone you care about shows signs of problem gambling, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Ontario offers family counselling and intervention resources. Approaching the individual calmly, without judgment, and focusing on specific behaviours rather than character is more effective than confrontation. Professional counselling through the national helpline can guide you on how to support them constructively.

Responsible Play on Sweepstakes Platforms

While Global Poker uses a sweepstakes model that is not classified as gambling under most Canadian provincial laws, this does not mean it carries no risk. The competitive, skill-based nature of poker means sessions can extend longer than planned. Gold Coin purchases represent real spending. We encourage all players to apply the same responsible gaming principles they would at any form of entertainment involving money.