Responsible Gaming Policy

Last updated: January 2026

1. Our Platform Commitment

localcircleconnect is a social entertainment platform for entertainment only. We are not a licensed gambling operator. No real money is wagered on our Platform, and no real money or prizes can be won. All activity uses virtual currency with no monetary value. Optional virtual coin packages may be purchased but are entirely optional.

localcircleconnect is committed to providing a safe, transparent, and responsible entertainment environment for all users. We take the wellbeing of our users seriously and have implemented the following policies and tools to support responsible gaming.

2. Entertainment Not Gambling

localcircleconnect explicitly and unambiguously operates as an entertainment platform, not as a gambling operator:

• All games use virtual coins only — no real money gambling takes place
• Virtual currency has no monetary value and cannot be exchanged for real money
• Users cannot win real money, prizes, or anything of tangible value
• The Platform is designed for social interaction and entertainment, not financial gain
• Gameplay is identical whether coins are purchased or earned for free

3. Age Verification — 18+ Mandatory

Access to localcircleconnect is strictly limited to persons aged 18 years and over. We implement the following age protection measures:

• Mandatory age confirmation during registration
• Prominent 18+ notices on all pages of the Platform
• Right to request age verification documentation at any time
• Immediate account suspension if a user is found to be under 18

If you are aware of a minor using the Platform, please contact us immediately at support@domain.co.nz.

4. Self-Limitation Tools

localcircleconnect provides the following self-limitation tools to help users manage their entertainment activity:

• Self-Exclusion: Users may request temporary or permanent exclusion from the Platform at any time by contacting our support team. Self-exclusion requests are processed within 24 hours.
• Session Time Reminders: Notifications to remind users of the time spent on the Platform during a session.
• Activity Tracking: Users may request a summary of their Platform activity to review their usage patterns.
• Account Closure: Users may permanently close their account at any time without restriction.

To activate any self-limitation tool, contact our team via the Contact page and select "Responsible Gaming" as the subject.

5. Vulnerable Player Protection

localcircleconnect is committed to protecting vulnerable individuals, including:

• Persons with a history of problem gambling or gambling addiction
• Persons in financial difficulty
• Persons experiencing mental health challenges

If you have a history of problem gambling, we recommend that you do not use our Platform and instead contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 for professional support.

6. Recognising Problem Gaming

While localcircleconnect does not involve real money, we recognise that compulsive gaming behaviour can occur with any platform. Warning signs include:

• Spending excessive time on the Platform to the detriment of other responsibilities
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or distressed when unable to access the Platform
• Neglecting work, family, or social obligations due to gaming habits
• Using the Platform as a way to escape from personal problems or low mood
• Viewing virtual coin wins as relevant to or practice for real gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek professional help immediately.

7. Support Organisations

The following New Zealand organisations provide free, confidential support for problem gambling and related issues:

• Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 | Text: 8006 | www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation: 0800 664 262 | www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous NZ: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• Lifeline NZ: 0800 543 354 | www.lifeline.org.nz
• 1737 — Need to Talk: Call or Text 1737 (free, 24/7)
• Family Services: 0800 211 211
• Relationship Services: 0800 735 283

Help is available, confidential, and recovery is possible.

8. Compliance

localcircleconnect is not a licensed gambling operator and is not subject to gambling licensing requirements, as no real money gambling takes place on our Platform. We operate in full compliance with New Zealand consumer protection law and continually review our responsible gaming measures to ensure they meet or exceed best practice standards.

9. Contact

For responsible gaming support or to activate self-limitation tools, please contact us at:

• Email: support@domain.co.nz
• Via our Contact page — select "Responsible Gaming" as the subject