Does Online Gambling Increase the Risk of Gambling Problems?

Online Gambling includes all forms of gambling that occur over the internet, such as sports wagering, casino games and poker. Its popularity has risen in recent years, mainly due to the availability of mobile apps that make it convenient for individuals to gamble from home or anywhere with an internet connection. Although the online environment can offer convenience and accessibility, it also increases the risk of gambling problems because there is no face-to-face accountability and individuals are often unable to recognize when they have a problem. This is exacerbated by the release of dopamine during wins, which can reinforce addictive behavior.

In addition, there are concerns about the lack of regulation and control over online gambling sites. Unlike land-based casinos, most online gambling websites do not share their player data with regulators. This means that identifying and acting on early risk indicators is reliant on operator-initiated action. Moreover, most research has been conducted using a single player account, which may not be representative of all online gamblers. Therefore, longitudinal research is needed to determine whether the use of online gambling affects the incidence and severity of gambling problems.

Although bricks-and-mortar casinos have existed since time immemorial, the emergence of online gambling has expanded the industry’s reach significantly. The internet has made it possible for people from all over the world to access online casinos and play for real money. However, many of these casinos are not licensed and do not follow regulations. As a result, players should be careful about where they gamble and how much they spend.