Online Gambling is the use of websites and apps to place wagers on various events, such as sports betting, fantasy sports, keno, lottery tickets and casino games. It’s an estimated $9.5 billion business — and a growing source of concern. Just like other types of addiction, gambling can cause significant harm, disrupting personal and professional relationships and causing financial difficulties. It also can have psychological and emotional consequences. The highs of winning and the lows of losing can trigger intense emotions, including guilt, shame and anxiety. Problem gambling is linked to increased use of alcohol and other substances and can lead to feelings of depression, resentment and hopelessness.
Unlike land-based casinos, online gambling sites can allow large wagers and provide players with instant feedback. This can be a strong temptation to continue gambling even after a loss, and can lead to excessive or compulsive gambling. The lack of face-to-face accountability and transparency can also make it easier for people to hide their gambling activity from others. This can contribute to financial problems and other risks, such as cybercrime.
To prevent this, it’s important to monitor your gambling accounts regularly and report any unauthorized transactions immediately. You can do this by checking your bank statements or using tools such as GamCare’s personalised gambling assessment tool. It’s also recommended to use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication, which helps prevent unauthorized access to your account. In addition, if you’ve experienced cybercrime, contact the charity Victim Support for help and advice.