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Ontario cracks down on illegal Prime Slot machines in convenience stores

Convenience stores lose lottery permits after offering deceptive slot-style games. Why regulators say these machines exploit loopholes—and put kids at risk.

There is vending machine over here, with a lot of snacks in it. It is operated by giving money in...
There is vending machine over here, with a lot of snacks in it. It is operated by giving money in here, so that we can take the snacks and we get the snacks down here after giving money and selecting the snack, and in the background there is a wall and here is the window.

Ontario cracks down on illegal Prime Slot machines in convenience stores

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has taken action against illegal gambling in convenience stores across the Greater Toronto Area. Several businesses have lost their lottery retailer licences after offering unauthorised electronic machines branded as Prime Slot. The move follows a wider crackdown on unregulated gambling in the province.

The AGCO revoked the registrations of multiple GTA retailers for operating Prime Slot machines. These devices mimic traditional slot machines, relying on chance despite claims from manufacturers that they are skill-based games. The commission has made it clear that such unapproved gambling equipment has no place in shops, particularly those accessible to children and young people.

The revocation of licences sends a strong message about the AGCO’s commitment to enforcing gambling laws. Businesses found operating unauthorised machines face penalties, while the province continues to push players toward regulated alternatives. The latest figures indicate a significant rise in legal gambling participation since the market’s re-regulation.

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