Online Gambling involves playing games of chance or skill for money using a computer, tablet or mobile phone. It is a fast-growing industry and can be found on sites hosted by casinos, gambling operators or gaming providers. To gamble online, you need three things: a device to access the internet (computer, tablet or mobile phone), an account with your chosen provider and some money.

A growing number of people are choosing to gamble online, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown, and the prevalence of gambling among young people is of particular concern. A recent report from Ipsos MORI, commissioned by Gamble Aware, quotes TV advertising and social media as the main sources of exposure for young people to gambling.

There are a range of potential harms associated with online gambling, including monetary losses, debt and feelings of guilt and shame. Unlike traditional gambling, online gamblers often do not realize that they are losing money and can find themselves chasing their losses, borrowing more and more and even selling possessions. They may also be putting their health at risk by sleeping poorly, eating irregularly and living a more sedentary lifestyle.

Gambling-adjacent behaviours are a common feature in many online games and can include loot boxes, virtual currency and skin betting. These features are being increasingly accessed by young people, who can be exposed to gambling-related behaviours through their friends’ activities and the influence of older siblings and relatives. Gambling-related problems can also impact on relationships, including those with family and at work and can lead to poor performance at school.