The Dangers of Online Gambling

Online Gambling involves placing bets on games or events, often using a computer or mobile device. This form of gambling is popular for many reasons, including: convenience, accessibility, and seeming unlimited money to bet with (although in reality, significant losses can have a negative impact on credit scores). In addition to these advantages, Internet gambling may provide a way to conceal the frequency and location of playing.

A growing number of countries and territories are legalizing, regulating and taxing Internet gambling. This follows recognition of the difficulty of enforcing prohibition and the potential benefits of a harm minimization approach, such as consumer protection, revenue generation and social cohesion.

While the growth of online gambling has been rapid, some research suggests that it does not lead to gambling problems in and of itself. However, some studies find that it does increase gambling problems in those who are already involved in problem gambling. Further research is needed to examine how different forms of online gambling may interact with a range of individual, interpersonal and environmental variables that influence the likelihood of problem gambling.

For this reason, it’s important that trusted adults learn about the various types of online gambling and how to spot the signs of possible trouble. By following a few simple rules, they can keep children and young people safe while still enjoying the fun of these online games. This article was written by broadcaster and online safety advocate Myleene Klass and was developed in partnership with Heather Cardwell, a practising online safety lead who is CE-OP trained.