The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has imposed a monetary fine of CA$120,000 on Great Canadian Entertainment (GCE) after discovering unauthorized gaming system software had been used at four Ontario casino properties.
The regulator said the compliance failures involved revoked or unapproved bill validator software installed on gaming machines between February 20 and March 15, 2025. In total, the AGCO identified 40 cases in which software that had not received the necessary authorization was implemented in live casino operations.
According to the regulator, this matter constitutes a significant violation because Gaming systems play a central role in maintaining the integrity, security and oversight of casino operations. These systems process bets and payments, support slot machine functionality, and contribute to controls intended to detect unlawful activity, including money laundering.
The regulator cited failures involving bill validator software
As explained in AGCO’s press release, bill validators are responsible for accepting cash loaded into electronic gaming machines while verifying the authenticity and value of the banknotes. Because they also support anti-money laundering protections, Ontario regulations require that the software that operates these devices undergo testing and receive official approval before they can be installed in casinos.
The AGCO said use of revoked or unapproved software bypasses those requirements.
According to the regulator, operating gaming equipment without proper testing, monitoring and authorization undermines safeguards designed to protect the gaming environment and may reduce public confidence in Ontario’s regulated casino market.
The commission emphasized that casino operators are responsible for ensuring all modifications to gaming systems are reviewed, tested and approved before being introduced into live operations. Therefore, spreading unauthorized software constitutes a serious compliance failure under the Ontario Gaming Standards.
Operators are responsible for compliance
While the AGCO did not identify the four casino properties involved, it confirmed they were operated by Great Canadian Entertainment.
Karin Schnarr, CEO and registrar of AGCO, said the regulator intends to continue enforcing compliance requirements across the province.
“The AGCO will continue to hold all casino operators accountable for meeting Ontario’s high standards of gaming system integrity,” he said.
The regulator explained that there are gaming equipment approval requirements to ensure the system performs its function reliably before it is put into use. The approval process also helps verify that equipment meets standards designed to protect customers and the integrity of gaming operations.
Under Ontario’s regulatory framework, casino operators who receive a Monetary Penalty Order can appeal the decision within 15 days. Each appeal is heard by the License Appeal Tribunal, an independent judicial body that is part of Tribunals Ontario.
This latest enforcement action follows previous regulatory actions involving Great Canadian Entertainment. In May 2025, three Greater Toronto Area casinos affiliated with the company were fined CA$150,000 after regulators found they failed to prevent underage gambling.
AGCO continues to emphasize that point operators are expected to comply fully with all technical and operational standards organize gaming equipment. The regulator stated that approved software and properly authorized gaming systems remain important safeguards to ensure safe casino operations, support anti-money laundering measures and maintain confidence in Ontario’s regulated gambling sector.
