The corona crisis increases the risk of online gambling addiction – Sports betting has long existed in various forms all which are based on results sports events. But what if all major sporting events are canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic?
Most of situs slot online companies responded immediately and plunged into the virtual world, increasing competition from long-established online betting companies. Different types of bets are offered: virtual sports games, bingo games, poker and even virtual casinos.
The situation is dangerous for people who are potentially addicted to gambling, say experts and activists working to tackle addiction. This is a big problem that must be tackled together by various parties.
“For people who are not used to gambling, gambling may be just entertainment to fill the void. But many people are also affected financially. Gambling advertisements give the wrong impression that gambling is a way to make money.” “James Grimes told DW.
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Risk of Online Gambling Addiction, Increases Fast
Many governments and health authorities are now seeing a rapid increase in online gambling and betting. The Belgian government recently tightened the rules for online betting by announcing a deposit limit of € 500 per week. However, this rule can only be applied to managers of local betting providers. The Spanish government has set limits on gambling ads that can only be displayed for a period of four hours between 01.00 and 05.00.
However, it is very difficult to limit online gambling. Sources working in the field say that the transition to virtual and skill-based casino games such as poker and backgammon has increased rapidly in almost every part of the world.
A recent study by the UK Gambling Commission found that 1.2 percent of people who gamble have a serious problem. In terms of online gambling, this figure is even higher at 2.5 percent.
Online betting providers are also getting creative. For example, Bet365, one of the largest betting sites in the world, broadcasts virtual football matches between fictional Chelsea retirees and Manchester Blues. Players can bet on the result of the match, total goals, first team to score, etc.
Gambling Can Cause Mental Health Problems
The fictional soccer game is made on a computer and only takes three minutes. Bettors no longer have to wait 90 minutes for the soccer match to end as usual. After the game is over for three minutes, the next game starts immediately and people can bet again. Experts warn that addiction also depends on how often a person is infected. With the fictional three-minute football game business model, the risk of addiction is higher.
In early April, nearly 5 million people watched ITV UK’s Virtual Grand National broadcast. Profits from virtual games reached $ 3.3 million and were donated to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Betting companies and gambling companies often highlight their role and contribution in contributing to athletic and social activities. They also donate funds for addiction prevention programs. But at a time of blockage in many places, James Grimes feared there would be a new wave of addiction.
While there are no statistics that directly quantify the effects of gambling addiction, experts say that in addition to bankruptcy, gambling addiction often leads to mental health problems and even suicide. / Dy