There are few industries out there that have risen at the same phenomenal rate as the online gambling world. And while that provides gamers with more gaming options, a better gaming experience and a closer version to the real things, there are of course dangers that it could also lead to higher levels of addiction too.
That can be very difficult to combat. Already we’re seeing more people requiring help with addiction, but what can be done to try and prevent that from further happening?
Age Verification
One of the most important measures that should be put in place to prevent addiction as online gambling grows is age verification. This is, of course, part of law and online gambling operators should be required to verify the age of their users to ensure that only those who are of legal age to gamble are able to participate. This can be done through various methods, including ID checks and age verification software.
While this is done, more checks and more systems need to be in place to make this as foolproof as possible.
Self-Exclusion
Another important measure that should be put in place is self-exclusion. This allows users who feel that they may be developing a gambling addiction to exclude themselves from gambling for a set period of time. Online gambling operators should be required to provide self-exclusion options and ensure that they are easily accessible.
And access is the key here. While many have them, they aren’t always known about by players, and this can increase the chances of becoming addicted and putting players in financial difficulty.
Responsible Gambling Tools
Online gambling operators should also provide responsible gambling tools to their users. These tools can include features such as deposit limits, time limits, and reality checks, which help users to control their gambling behaviour and limit their exposure to potential addiction.
Advertising Regulations
Advertising regulations are another important measure that should be put in place to prevent addiction as online gambling grows. Online gambling operators should be required to comply with strict advertising regulations, including limiting the amount and type of advertising that is allowed. This can help to prevent vulnerable individuals from being exposed to potentially harmful gambling advertisements.
Interestingly, there are now panned periods where adverts cannot be broadcast for gambling, but it’s perhaps social media where now this is a bigger issue, with regulations on that less limited.
Education and Support
Naturally, and perhaps most importantly, more needs to be done to aid people with gambling addiction. This can include providing information on the signs of gambling addiction, offering support groups and counselling services, and working with organisations that provide assistance to those struggling.
Support needs to be much more prominent in the space and as visible as the gambling adverts themselves in order for people to combat any problems they may have.
