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Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) is warning the public about a growing number of fraudulent online gambling ads appearing across social media platforms — a trend highlighted across recent online gambling news
These ads falsely claim to be connected to legitimate casinos in the province. Scammers often copy real casino names, logos, and images to make the ads appear authentic, with the goal of tricking people into sharing personal or financial information.
In Saskatchewan, PlayNow.com is the only legal online gambling platform. It is operated in partnership with the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) and powered by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. No land‑based casino in the province offers an online version of its services.
With major global sporting events such as the World Cup currently in full swing, LGS is also reminding sports fans to be especially cautious. High‑profile tournaments often lead to a surge in fake betting ads and fraudulent casino promotions, as scammers try to take advantage of increased interest in online wagering. Residents are encouraged to verify that any sports‑betting offer they see is coming from PlayNow.com, the only legal online gambling platform in Saskatchewan.
LGS is urging residents to be cautious when encountering ads that appear to promote online versions of local casinos. These ads are designed to mislead users and may attempt to steal credit card details or other sensitive information.
The agency encourages the public to report misleading or suspicious gambling ads directly through the platform where they appear, including Facebook, X, and Instagram. Fraud can also be reported to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre online or by phone at 1‑888‑495‑8501.
To help combat the issue, LGS has partnered with a brand‑impersonation monitoring service. In its first six months, the service identified and helped remove more than 140 fraudulent ads targeting Saskatchewan residents.
These scams reflect a broader challenge across North America, where criminals frequently impersonate well‑known casino brands to create a false sense of legitimacy. Victims are often redirected to fake websites that request personal or banking information, leading to identity theft or unauthorized charges.
Government‑regulated gambling platforms across Canada continue to face similar challenges. Even in Ontario — the only province that allows private operators to compete alongside the government‑run OLG platform — fraudulent ads and increased competition have created ongoing pressure within Ontario gaming regulations
For players seeking safe alternatives, exploring trusted casino reviews can help identify legitimate, regulated platforms.
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