Responsible Gaming at Low Stakes: A Guide to C$1 Deposit Casinos in Canada

The best responsible gambling platforms in Canada are C$1 Deposit Casinos. After registering, players can invest one dollar and enter some of Canada’s finest online casinos with a bonus. For Canucks that are interested in playing casino games risk-free, Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC) has researched the best sites for you with the most competitive casino bonuses and the newest slots and casino games.

Play the best slots online or use strategy with table games and live games. You could also try your luck at winning a six or seven-figure payouts with progressive jackpots – it’s all at your fingertips. But before you grab a bonus and indulge, let’s talk a little about the importance of responsible gambling habits.

The main benefits of C$1 deposit casinos in Canada include risk-free gambling, however, as exciting as it is to play some of the best online slots in the industry for only C$1 at low-stakes online casinos, gambling responsibly has never been more important. Canucks are increasingly drawn to the convenience and affordability of C$1 casinos as they let players enjoy casino games with minimal financial commitment and are an attractive option for anyone wanting to test the waters risk-free.

In our easy-to-read Guide to C$1 Deposit Casinos in Canada, we will define what responsible gaming is, explain its importance in the context of online gambling, and discuss common risks and how to recognize signs of problem gambling. We guide you on how to set personal limits for time and money spent at online casinos. We highlight tools and features offered by C$1 deposit casinos to help you manage your gambling habits. For Canucks that need help, we’ll provide a list of Canadian support groups and more information on responsible gaming.

Understanding Responsible Gaming

Responsible Gaming is a set of practices and tools designed to ensure players enjoy online casinos and sportsbooks that are safe and regulated. Keeping tracks of your online gambling means that by using some responsible gambling tools, you will prevent compulsive gambling behaviours and minimize the potential adverse effects of gambling.

When one considers the risks of gambling, it becomes clear that every caution is necessary. Most Canucks can deposit at an online casino, play, and then cash out when they have had enough, but for other players, it’s not that easy. Players who are vulnerable to gambling addiction will find themselves chasing wins, borrowing or stealing money to gamble online secretly, and much like the thirst of an alcoholic, the gambling addict will have an unquenchable thirst for real money gambling games, and it doesn’t matter how much they have already lost.

Here are some of the tell-tale signs of gambling addiction:

Consistently thinking about gambling and avoiding day-to-day responsibilities to gamble.
Chasing wins and compulsively gambling can cause substantial financial losses.
Anyone with a compulsive gambling problem will socially isolate and gamble secretly for hours.
Increase your bets to recover previous losses and chase your wins.

If you find yourself thinking more about gambling than before or are spending money that wasn’t assigned for gambling, how about setting up some responsible gambling tools at your online casino and take back control? Set limits on how much you spend or how long you play, and access resources to enhance your awareness about the potential risks of gambling. Players can also self-exclude temporarily or permanently and can click on links for support networks and professional counselling services.

A handy feature of the Responsible Gambling section of any regulated casino is the Self Assessment Questionnaire, which you can take to evaluate your gambling habits. Answer yes and no to a set of gambling-related questions, and depending on your results, you can make necessary adjustments.

Setting Limits at C$1 Deposit Casinos

It’s true that C$1 deposit casinos offer an affordable way to play real-money online gambling games. Even so, it’s still crucial for players to establish personal limits based on the following:

Time Management – Decide how long you want to play online, then set a reminder when it’s time to stop playing. It’s also helpful to take regular breaks and prevent mental tiredness.
Set Financial Limits – Decide on your gambling budget daily, weekly, and monthly, and keep your online gambling funds separate from your other household expenses to prevent overspending.
Responsible Gambling Tools – Licensed and regulated C$1 deposit casinos allow their users to set deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion, as well as access gambling addiction counsellors.
Informational Materials – Every online casino provides a Responsible Gambling section, usually found at the bottom of the casino’s website. In this section, you can read about help and support services.

Maximizing Enjoyment with Minimal Risk

In this section, we present some strategies for enjoying casino games responsibly with low stakes, including choosing games with lower bets and taking advantage of bonuses wisely. There should always be a balance between playing games for fun versus the risks of gambling. Choose games with lower bets, such as penny slots, to maximize enjoyment with minimal risk. This is a great way to extend your gambling session without missing out on any action. Another tip is to try demo slots for free and learn the rules of the slot game and paytable before trying the game for real money.

There are always terms and conditions and wagering requirements associated with casino bonuses. The T&Cs explain how to convert your bonus to withdrawable real cash wins successfully. Online casino gaming should always be seen as fun entertainment rather than as a way to make extra cash.

Resources for Responsible Gaming in Canada

Gambling addiction can cause harm like depression, bankruptcy, family breakups, and even homelessness. These effects can be devastating, which is why the Canada Safety Council considers gambling addiction a community safety and crime prevention issue. Here are some resources available to Canadian players for support and information on responsible gambling.

Gambling Therapy Canada – A free online service offering practical advice to gamblers struggling with problem gambling.
GamTalk Canada – Players who want to share their experience with someone online can visit GamTalk to connect with people who have been through this before.
RecoverMe App Canada – A mobile app that helps you manage a gambling problem by using cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and support tools in helping to control urges and prevent lapses in your gambling.
Responsible Gambling Council – Provides valuable information, self-assessment tools, and educational resources to promote responsible gambling behaviour.

Choosing the Right C$1 Deposit Casino

When choosing the right C$1 deposit casino, please pay special attention to their licensing information, and whether they offer 24/7 customer support and responsible gaming policies. Valid licenses are issued by legitimate regulators such as the Malta Gambling Authority, Kahnawake Gaming Commission, and the Curacao government.

You should be able to contact support via Live Chat and email, and many top-rated software developers must provide the slots and table games. To safeguard your hard-earned cash and mental health, only play at top-rated Canadian casinos that feature a solid, Responsible gambling section. Reputable C$1 deposit casinos must provide clear and helpful information on responsible gambling and allow Canucks to set deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclude.

Commemorating International Responsible Gambling Day on 17 February 2024

By Ginevra Alessandrello

Trusted and reputable top online casinos have consistently spread responsible gambling messages, but on 17 February 2024 in commemoration of International Responsible Gambling Day, this awareness will be enhanced ten-fold. Regulators, governments and the gambling industry are focusing on safer gambling habits to help vulnerable players.

Since online casinos opened in the early 1990s, gambling has been promoted as fun-filled entertainment. While most people can gamble within those parameters, there’s no fun in it for some. When a person starts playing compulsively, they struggle to log off. They will be obsessed about winning and will chase wins, hoping to get back what they’ve lost.

Since COVID-19, the world was forced to lock themselves indoors, with little to do. Many turned to online casinos as a pastime. With scores of new players registering daily, the best online casinos and regulatory authorities have joined hands to combat the rise of gambling addiction.

Responsible gambling events taking place globally

There are several events taking place globally during the month of February and March 2024 in commemoration of this international day. They include the following:

The Washington-based National Council on Problem Gambling will be hosting the Digital Symposium 2024 – which is one of the bigger initiatives – taking place on 15 February 2024. Three other follow-up events are scheduled to take place in May, September and November. On the agenda is the topic of the ripple effect of problem gambling on families, approaches to supporting loved ones, financial counselling, gambling treatment and recovery experiences.

Meanwhile, the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) in Canada will be hosting the Discovery 2024 conference from 25 to 27 March 2024 to drive change and deliver impact for responsible gambling. Attendees will be joining in person and online.

The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation, on the other hand, has uploaded a Self-Check Quiz on its Homepage in red. The quiz helps players determine if they have a gambling problem and provides support and resources on what they can do.

How Do Online Casinos Promote Responsible Gambling?

Reputable and licensed top online casinos provide responsible gambling tools on their sites for players to use. By activating the safety features, players can control how much they play and spend.

They can do this by self-excluding (temporarily or permanently), which can be set for 1 week, 1 month, or permanently. After requesting self-exclusion, the casino will block you instantly. If you have opted for temporary self-exclusion, it will take a few hours until the changes are made and your account is activated.

Players can also set deposit limits, initiate cooling off periods, and even activate loss limits. Many best online casinos also include a “Reality Check” tool that consistently reminds individuals of the duration they have been playing for, the amounts they have wagered, and calculating how much real money they have lost over a period of time.

People who feel they have a gambling issue can also attend therapy or get involved with support groups. There is no shame in seeking help, but for many of those afflicted, their addiction is a dirty little secret they don’t share with anyone.

People who feel they may have a problem with gambling are encouraged to make use of national helplines in their home countries, which are free of charge. These types of call centres are confidential and offer expert advice and support.

Unpacking Gambling Addiction

Experts say that 70% of study participants with mood disorders use gambling as a coping strategy to escape their symptoms. Gambling addiction is when players become so consumed by thoughts of winning that they obsess and chase wins. Addicts often play with money they don’t have, spend their work time gambling, avoid socialising, and even disguise their gambling behaviour. Compulsive gambling is a mental disorder that offers no warning.

People can gamble for years and never develop a gambling addiction, while others play once and are addicted. Life-changing events like divorce or financial problems can be the catalyst for an addiction to develop. Real-money games like slots, poker, roulette, and blackjack are fun and should never be used for anything other than entertainment.

Since Covid-19, online casino games like slots, sports betting, and table games have become extremely popular. Most individuals are able to play within their budget, but others struggle with this. Problem gambling was only identified as an addiction in the late 1980s, before this, gambling was seen as entertainment. After intensive studies, compulsive gambling was eventually re-classified as an addiction.

The stigma around problem gambling

The stigma around gambling addiction has impacted the choices made by individuals around the world. It impacts prevention and treatment.

According to a scientific paper ‘Gambling Disorder and Stigma’ – published in 2022 by Leanne Quigley – gambling disorders are among the most stigmatized mental health problems. She states that such stigma leads to concealment, reduced treatment-seeking, and decreased self-esteem.

Stigma is the negative evaluations and attitudes about a condition, leading to discrimination of individuals. In her paper, Quigley says this then leads to self-stigma.

The stigma attached to gambling addiction is prevalent in all countries. If there is one thing you can do to help others, it would be to help raise awareness and speak out against the stigma. No one deserves to be shamed!

References

Quigley L. (2022). Gambling Disorder and Stigma: Opportunities for Treatment and Prevention. Current addiction reports, 9(4), 410–419. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-022-00437-4

Igaming identity theft gang uncovered in n Ontario

By Ramona Depares

Months of investigation by the Ontario police came to a dramatic end as two people from Toronto have been formally charged with fraudulent activities related to Canadian online casino sites. The inquiry, which was launched following a report of fraudulent activity on Ontario’s iGaming website, culminated in two people being charged with a total of 21 offences.

According to Canadian media outlet CityNewsEverywhere, it all started in July 2022, with allegations of identity theft being committed on the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) iGaming website. Both the provincial police and the enforcement arm of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) were immediately alerted.

More reports of fraudulent activity followed in August of the same year, this time on the OLG’s online sportsbook. Police had seized a number of electronic devices, fraudulent documents and instruments related to separate criminal offences from a residence in North York.

Finally, December 2023 saw the arrest of Ernesto Rasing, a 38-year-old from Toronto, and of Elaiza Mae Paculanan, aged 20. BayToday reports that the duo are facing a total of 10 fraud-related charges including;

The use of forged documents
Possession of credit card
The use of credit card data
Possession of an identity document
An instrument solely intended for copying credit cards
Identity theft

Investigations are continuing in this case.

What is igaming identity theft?

Identity theft presents a very real risk for all online casinos in Canada. The official Canadian government website describes identity theft as “the unauthorized use of your information by third parties”, involving the collection and use of personal information such as your name, date of birth, address, social insurance number (SIN), as well as any other personal details for criminal purposes.

Within the iGaming landscape, this means that your data will be used at online casinos in Canada under false pretences, with the scope of facilitating winnings and cashouts. Seon Technologies, a company specialising in cyber security, explains that there are several types of gambling fraud, with the below being the most common:

The creation of multiple accounts using fake credentials
Bonus abuse, usually using fake accounts
Tournament fixing, known as ‘gnoming’, is made possible when several accounts collude together to help one other account win
Flooding a table with multiple fake accounts that will all be used to obtain favourable results for one specific player

The above criminal activity requires the use of fake accounts, which is why identity theft is such a big problem at some online casinos in Canada. And the issue is not limited to Canada, but worldwide.

And if you’re wondering whether such practices carry serious repercussions for operators and players, the answer is yes. Even the best online casinos in Canada can find themselves crippled if they end up targeted by such scammers. For starters, the site may end up falling foul of gambling regulations if it’s being unwittingly used for money laundering purposes.

Moreover, there is a hefty financial cost to consider, as those who indulge in identity theft usually do so to abuse the bonus system and to lock in unfair winnings. Finally, the practice can also end up damaging other players, as the end game sometimes includes accessing other players’ funds illegally.

This is why identity checks are important for online casinos

It is vital for any online casino in Canada to make sure that its identity verification and KYC processes are on point, not only to ensure compliance and avoid fines or even license suspension but also to protect players, safeguard the casino’s revenue and be able to continue operations without any legal hassles.

Luckily, the best online casinos in Canada make use of highly sophisticated software so as to minimize the chances of fraud. There are several ways an operator can protect itself from unscrupulous scammers, and many of these are actually a legal requirement laid down by the FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada) and AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario).

Gambling regulations lay down that online casinos in Canada must carry out thorough Know Your Customer (KYC) processes by using identity data or document verification when onboarding new players. According to Ontario-based GBGPLC, which supplies identity verification services, these regulations can be achieved in two different ways.

The first option is by means of a single match to a credit file held by a Canadian credit bureau. This is only FINTRAC compliant if it’s at least three years old, so players with relatively new credit history may find it difficult to have their identity verified. This usually happens in the case of players who are legally old enough to gamble, but are still young.

The second option is via two credit file matches, each of which must be at least six months old. Most sites favour this method, as it delivers very rapid onboarding decisions that are KYC-compliant without precluding players who may still be too young for a three-year-old match.

There are other measures that are taken by online casinos in Canada to minimize the risk of identity fraud as much as possible. These include a solid digital footprint analysis, whereby given email addresses and phone numbers are linked to social media accounts and other online platforms. Conducting an IP fraud score analysis is another effective method, as is password hash analysis. The latter is particularly foolproof as scammers with more than one fake account almost never bother to create unique passwords for each fraudulent account.

Having thorough identity verification and KYC processes in place is not only a must for any Canadian online casino to avoid fraudulent activity. It also ensures that the site takes its responsible gambling obligations seriously, as no player will be able to bypass an application for self-exclusion.

Victims of igaming identity theft in Ontario urged to report crimes

One of the most worrying aspects of all this is that your identity may be stolen without you even knowing about it. The Ontario consumer protection branch provides a list of signs to look out for. These include:

Failing to receive expected bills and statements, as someone may have changed the mailing address for your accounts.
Receiving calls from collection agencies or creditors for an account you don’t have.
Receiving bank notifications about a new account in your name, or added charges.
Your financial statements don’t match your actual financial activity.
You receive calls from a credit agency to say you’ve been approved or denied credit that you haven’t applied for.

What should you do if you believe that you’ve been targeted by one of these criminals and that you’ve been the victim of iGaming identity theft? Ontario authorities advise you to report the matter without delay to all the relevant authorities. According to Canadian government services, you should immediately follow the steps below:

File a report with the local police.
Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501)
File a report with your bank and credit card companies. Stop all existing cards and request new bank or credit cards with new numbers on them.

Identity theft is a very serious business at the end of the day, and you should never make the assumption that it will not happen to you. But by staying vigilant and exercising caution, you’ll be able to continue enjoying your time at the top Canadian online casinos without the fear of fraud.

Commemorating International Responsible Gambling Day

By Ginevra Alessandrello

Since COVID-19, the world has been forced to lock itself indoors, with little to do. Many turned to online casinos as a pastime. With scores of new players registering daily, the best online casinos and regulatory authorities have joined hands to combat the rise of gambling addiction.

Responsible gambling events taking place globally

There are several events taking place globally during the month of February and March 2024 in commemoration of this international day. They include the following:

How Do Online Casinos Promote Responsible Gambling?

Reputable and licensed top online casinos provide responsible gambling tools on their sites for players to use. By activating the safety features, players can control how much they play and spend.

Players can also set deposit limits, initiate cooling-off periods, and even activate loss limits. Many best online casinos also include a “Reality Check” tool that consistently reminds individuals of the duration they have been playing for, the amounts they have wagered, and how much real money they have lost over a period of time.

Unpacking Gambling Addiction

Gambling stimulates the brain’s reward system with a release of Dopamine, the happiness hormone. When dopamine levels drop, addicted players feel the need to chase wins to get back those good feelings. Experts say that 70% of study participants with mood disorders use gambling as a coping strategy to escape their symptoms.

Gambling addiction is when players become so consumed by thoughts of winning that they obsess and chase wins. Addicts often play with money they don’t have, spend their work time gambling, avoid socialising, and even disguise their gambling behaviour.

Compulsive gambling is a mental disorder that offers no warning. People can gamble for years and never develop a gambling addiction, while others play once and are addicted. Life-changing events like divorce or financial problems can be the catalyst for an addiction to develop.

Real-money games like slots, poker, roulette, and blackjack are fun and should never be used for anything other than entertainment.

Gambling addiction only happens to 2-3% of the gambling population. Still, when we consider that there are a staggering 8 billion people in the world and that gambling is a $400 billion industry, it’s clear that most adults enjoy this pastime. Since COVID-19, online casino games like slots, sports betting, table games have become extremely popular.

Most individuals are able to play within their budget, but others struggle with this. Problem gambling was only identified as an addiction in the late 1980s, before this, gambling was seen as entertainment.

After intensive studies, compulsive gambling was eventually re-classified as an addiction.

The stigma around problem gambling

The stigma around gambling addiction has impacted the choices made by individuals around the world. It impacts prevention and treatment.

Stigma is the negative evaluations and attitudes about a condition, leading to discrimination of individuals. In her paper, Quigley says this then leads to self-stigma.

Treatment for 60,000 gambling addicts in NZ at risk over funding cuts

Over the last 30 years, New Zealanders struggling with gambling addiction have been supported by The Salvation Army’s Oasis Programme, a robust service that includes therapy, training, and ‘wrap-around’ care nationwide. But in 2023, the Salvation Army’s request for proposal (RFP) was denied without an explanation. The Oasis Programme has supported over 60,000 Kiwi patients in its legacy, and this will mark its first-ever closure.

Instead, it is assumed that the funding ballot will go to another national programme. The Ministry of Health has not released any details publicly about why the change was made or who the next service provider will be. The funding is set to expire on 31 January 2024, leaving over 2000 patients without confirmed support next year, as well as dozens of gambling addiction experts and therapists without a job.

Every year, like most national welfare services in New Zealand, The Salvation Army puts forward a new RFP to continue funding. This allows the chance for other competitive proposals to be considered. After 30 years of ongoing support and proven success, it was shocking to the Army to see an automated email arrive to let the team know their RFP was declined.

Salvation Army National Director Rod Care said in a media interview with RNZ, “To be honest, we’re really disappointed to be missed out completely.”

Not only will this mean a large-scale restructuring of the charity’s services, but it will also force its current patients and participants into what will likely be uncomfortable and damaging transitions if their support and therapy are discontinued.

Care stated that the Salvation Army has not lost interest in the programme, nor in being the go-to platform for help in this space for Kiwis. Despite the disappointing news, their team is not ruling out an RFP submission for 2025 depending on what takes place over the next year.

Impact on gambling addicts who were receiving treatment

Gambling issues do not happen in a vacuum, according to top experts.

Maria Bellringer, Auckland University of Technology’s Gambling and Addictions Research Centre Director, explained to RNZ that gambling addiction is almost always prompted by other challenges happening in an individual’s life, whether it is drug addiction, homelessness, or alcohol abuse.

Gambling support is typically structured as a combination of treatments including counselling, group therapy, and in some cases psychiatric medication. It is most effective when patients are supported alongside any other mental health issues at play, rather than treated as a single-cause, single-symptom issue.

What made The Oasis Programme a success was its full-service approach, where patients could get support for a number of different challenges from one provider. Care said now when patients arrive with multiple problems at once, they will unfortunately need to be referred somewhere else for responsible gambling support.

“People with gambling addictions tend to struggle to front up to services and seek help. I think the difficulty in changing providers will create a challenge for the sector, as some may simply not choose to get the help that they need,”
Maria Bellringer

Historically, many patients would end up in The Oasis Programme accidentally. They might enter The Salvation Army looking for support for other mental health needs, but when they mentioned they also struggle with gambling addiction, there were targeted therapy options that could easily and simply be built into their treatment plan.

Now, with support taken away from The Salvation Army, there is a strong risk of patients falling through the cracks when it comes to directly tackling gambling addiction.

Bellringer also mentioned the toll that this change will likely have on research in the field for New Zealand.

“The Salvation Army has a lot of institutional knowledge because they’ve been providing the service for so long and have always been really keen to collaborate in research, to reduce and understand gambling harms. To lose them as a research collaborator and partner because they’re no longer operating gambling services is actually going to be a huge loss to gambling research,”
Maria Bellringer quoted

Other organisations that can help gambling addiction in NZ

According to the Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora, the top signs of gambling addiction are:

Experiencing financially stress
Believing that gambling can help one get out of debt
Gambling in secret or making excuses to loved ones
Spending more time or money at a casino than intended
Losing interest in family, friends, hobbies, and home life
Borrowing money from relatives or friends to gamble

For those in New Zealand struggling with gambling addiction, the good news is that there are several organisations outside of The Salvation Army that offer other forms of support.

Gambling Helpline Aotearoa is a free, anonymous service that operates 24 hours a day. They have four specialist services on call: Māori Gambling Helpline, Pasifika Gambling Helpline, Debt Gambling Helpline, and Youth Gambling Helpline. Anyone needing immediate support can text 8006 or call 088 654 655 for professional help.

The helpline is part of the leading New Zealand organisation, Safer Gambling Aotearoa, a nonprofit focused on minimising the harm of gambling in communities across the country. Their website is filled with resources about how to spot a gambling problem, what to do if you know you are at risk or suffering from an addiction, and the best ways to seek help for yourself or a loved one. Safer Gambling Aotearoa has 14 locations throughout both the North and South Island, and they offer a variety of counselling and support services.

Trusted NZ online casinos include resources to reduce gambling harm

All gambling venues – both in person and online – should be used for entertainment purposes only, and by those with a healthy relationship with igaming. Recognising the risks and accepting the realities of a casino game is essential to having a fun, enjoyable, and safe experience.

It is also essential to only play games within trusted, reputable online casinos. The standards for certified New Zealand online casinos are extremely high, requiring a thorough suite of digital tools to mitigate harm to players. Everything from self-exclusion options to budget constraint settings, time limits on gaming sessions, and integrated support groups and helplines on the platform ensure that gamers are protected every step of the way. Compared to classic pokie machines, online casinos are far more regulated. For example, the programme will set clocks to stop play after a certain set limit, helping encourage moderation.

Low-deposit online casinos also offer players the chance to game for hours of enjoyment with only a $1, $5, or $10 investment. This helps ensure that players stay within their intended budgets, without capping the length of time that they can spend having fun and feeling the rush of a casino game. Overall, this provides game enthusiasts with a low-risk option with plenty of safeguards in place – so that their hobby remains a hobby.

With gambling addiction support in New Zealand at a crucial turning point, it has never been more important to protect gamers. This is a responsibility not just on individuals, families, and policy-makers, but also on casinos. Building safer, lower-investment gaming resources should be a priority for people throughout the industry, as a way to make gaming what it should be – fun, accessible, and low-risk to players.

A new study finds stigma around gambling to be harmful

By Ginevra Alessandrello

GambleAware has launched a new campaign for Online Casinos UK to end the stigma around problem gambling and calls for people to “open up about gambling.” GambleAware is an independent charity in the UK that deals with the education, prevention, and early intervention of gambling harm at UK Online Casinos. Now, GambleAware has called for an end to the stigma surrounding problem gambling and encourages anyone who has any symptoms of problem gambling to open up, talk to a specialist or a counsellor, and get back on the road to recovery.

GambleAware research data has revealed that 64% of adults with gambling addiction do not speak to anyone about their addiction. A total of 39% admitted that it’s because of its pervasive stigma, while 76% admitted that they felt better after opening up with a trained counsellor. GambleAware intends to prove there is power in talking to someone. For those who need help with Responsible Gambling, it’s always available. GambleAware Chief Executive Zoë Osmond told media they were alarmed by how many people were struggling with gambling addiction on their own. He said that gambling harm is a hidden addiction that’s not easy to spot from the outside, so it’s essential to provide a wide range of support services so that compulsive gamblers can come forward without shame.

GambleAware is the leading British charity working to minimize problems associated with problem gaming. Donations from the industry fund the charity and operate as a confidential phone service that provides information and support. Open 24/7, anyone impacted by gambling harm can open up and have that first conversation, and it should happen as early as possible.

Problem gambling statistics in the UK

In the UK, problem gambling affects individuals, their families and the overall community. A variety of factors contribute to problem gambling, ranging from economic and social factors to how accessible gambling opportunities are. Problem gambling is measured with various tools and surveys by the NHS, which is considered a reliable source for problem gambling. According to 2022 data from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), provided by the Health Survey for England 2020, it’s estimated that 0.5% of the UK adult population can be considered problem gamblers.

Statistics released by the UKGC in June 2021 on problem gambling has revealed the following:

In a telephone survey conducted by Yonder Consulting, a company that blends research, strategy and imagination, 4010 adults aged 16 and over were interviewed on the phone in September 2020, December 2020, and March 2021. The results revealed that in June 2021, participation in gambling activity in the UK over the past four weeks fell to 42%, a 3.5% point decline compared to June 2020. The overall gambling participation increased by three percentage points to 25%, while in-person participation is down 8 percentage points to 24%. The general problem gambling rate is stable at 0.4%, and moderate risk has decreased by 0.7% compared to 1.4% in the year to June 2020.

More recent figures from the UKGC’s statistics on problem gambling, provided by Yonder Consulting, showed a similar picture. Telephone interviews were conducted with 4002 participants between June 2022 and March 2023. Overall participation in any gambling activity remained at 44% compared to last year, and the overall problem gambling rate is statistically stable at 0.3%. The moderate and low-risk rates stay at 1.2% and 1.8%, respectively, compared to March 2022.

In November, Safer Gambling Week was commemorated

The UK has just come out of commemorating Safer Gambling Week from the 13th to the 19th of November. From this event, the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) and Betknowmore UK have joined forces to launch Safer Gambling training. Organized by trade bodies of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), Bacta, and the Bingo Association, Safer Gambling Week sees the gambling industry coming together to promote safer online gambling by highlighting Responsible Gambling tools available to stay in control. Safer Gambling Week is now in its seventh year.

Responsible Gambling Tools at Online Casinos and Sportsbooks

Some of the tools offered at online casinos and sportsbooks include setting limits on how long you play or how much you spend. For UK players who find they are spending more than their budget allows or find that gambling has taken over their lives, self-exclusion is also available. At UK casinos, responsible gambling initiatives embrace technology to enhance player protection. Online gambling platforms have implemented features like reality checks, time and spending limits, and helpful pop-up reminders to warn players of how long they have been gambling. Responsible gambling tools encourage players to take regular breaks and prevent excessive gambling.

Safer Gambling Week Employee Training

One of the initiatives of Safer Gambling Week is training the staff at online casinos and sportsbooks to identify problematic gambling patterns. By analyzing player behaviour patterns, operators can reach out to at-risk players and offer support and assistance. Safer Gambling Week also provides gambling employees with specialist training to safeguard players from gambling harm and strengthen protection standards. A world-class training programme that combines expert knowledge, and research, this endeavour meets the latest Gambling Commission Licence Conditions needs.

The safer gambling training was awarded the City and Guilds Assured status. Six online training programmes include how to understand customer vulnerability in a gambling environment and gambling-related harms. The course also teaches enhanced skills for customer interaction and the awareness of gambling support services.

Top Online Casinos UK Conclusion

Online gambling is highly regulated in the UK. Before a casino can get a license from the UK Gambling Commission, they must meet many requirements, including providing tools and resources for responsible online gambling. An approach directed towards gambling at the best online casino UK sites to ensure gambling is conducted safely for everyone involved. Responsible gambling provides a safe, fair, and enjoyable online gambling session, with the object being responsible gambling behaviour that doesn’t cause any harm to yourself and others.

Reforms in the UK Gambling Act include financial risk checks, restrictions on advertisements, raising the age limit for offline and online gambling, responsible advertisements and marketing campaigns and more Responsible Gambling endeavours. These changes will impact which adverts are displayed, how payments are made and how age verification occurs online. The UKGC’s main objective is to make sure gambling is conducted fairly and openly and does not cause harm to the public.

The main points for the UKGC Safer Gambling Week can be summarised as follows:

Take Action – Set your limits – Self-exclude from gambling
Get Involved in Safer Gambling Week 2023
Access resources for parents, carers, schools & universities
Use Responsible Gambling tools and resources

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The NZ Gambling Discussion Submissions: Shedding Light on implications for gamblers

By Daniela Rose

The future of online casinos has been the subject of extensive discussion, with participants sharing diverse perspectives on key issues. This article explores the major themes and proposals raised in the New Zealand Gambling Discussion submissions, shedding light on potential implications for local gamblers.

Exploring Ideas, Interests, and Concerns

In a comprehensive evaluation of online gambling in New Zealand, the majority of respondents advocated for consistent regulation across online and land-based gambling. Self-exclusion emerged as a popular harm-reduction strategy, although some voiced reservations about its efficacy, particularly for those grappling with problem gambling behaviours. Additional measures, such as credit card and public WIFI limits, internet censorship, and proactive education, were championed to enhance understanding of the risks associated with online gambling.

Various technical and policy issues were brought to the fore including restricting access to unregulated sites and addressing the convergence of video games and gambling. Many contributors stressed the need for gaming regulators to mandate warnings on games featuring gambling-like elements to empower consumers to make informed responsible gambling choices.

Challenges and Perspectives on Harm Reduction in Online Gambling

The most popular harm-reduction method was self-exclusion. However, some respondents felt it was insufficient or unhelpful, particularly for those with problem gambling habits. The vast majority of respondents supported credit card and public WIFI limits and internet censorship. While these steps may reduce harm, those who responded said they could easily be bypassed using alternative payment methods, phone data, and VPNs.

Many submitters who supported and commented on reducing harm from online gambling stated that: 

Proactive education was an essential way of helping Kiwis understand the risks associated with online gambling
The gambling industry needed to accept responsibility for the harm caused by their products

Participants also had significantly divergent thoughts about who may be successful operators in a regulated online gaming system. While Lotto NZ and the TAB were strongly opposed to expanding their current product offerings, other submitters said that if New Zealand does not have a regulated online gaming company, players will continue to use existing unregulated sites. These facilities may need proper damage mitigation procedures and generate tax income for New Zealand or repay revenues to the community.

Several technical and policy issues were presented. This included the challenge of, if required, restricting access to unregulated sites. The capacity for users to self-exclude from unauthorised operators and products was deemed vital by the majority of submitters who provided feedback on ways that may be used to prohibit access to unlawful websites. With minimum deposit casinos, however, these submitters prioritised user autonomy and freedom of choice.

Divergent Views on Gambling Expansion in New Zealand

Debates centred on whether New Zealand should allow a variety of gambling products. Lotto NZ and TAB faced opposition to expanding their offerings, fearing increased harm. Meanwhile, proponents argued that players would resort to unregulated sites without regulated options, potentially lacking proper safeguards. Technical and policy issues were also discussed, including the convergence of video games and gambling.

Consistent Regulation Between Online and Land-Based Gambling

Submitters overwhelmingly advocated for consistent regulation between online casinos and traditional land-based gambling, positioning harm minimisation as the top priority. Proposed harm-reduction measures include setting deposit, wager, and loss limits, implementing time-out features, and providing easy access to play information. However, the specifics, such as operator discretion on spending limits and aligning online and land-based Class 4 gambling machines, triggered debates.

Online Gambling Operators and Products

Options for the future of online gambling operators and products were presented:

Option 1: Lotto NZ and the TAB continue to offer existing gambling products

The majority favoured maintaining the status quo, asserting that expanding options could increase problem gambling. Concerns were voiced about potential negative impacts on funds returned to local communities.

Option 2: Extend Lotto NZ and the TABs online product offering

Supporters argued for expansion, believing it would maximise revenue staying within New Zealand. However, opposition from some quarters stressed the potential harm and normalisation of online gambling.

Option 3: License domestic operators

A study on the feasibility of licensing domestic operators gained traction, with supporters emphasising reduced operational costs and increased charity funds. Concerns were raised about potential gambling problems and reduced contributions to charitable causes.

Option 4: License domestic and overseas operators

Widespread support existed for licensing domestic and overseas operators, aligning with directing consumers to regulated platforms. Specific licensing requirements, such as profit return to communities, adherence to codes of practice, and server locations, were highlighted.

Tools for Restricting Access to Unauthorised Online Gambling

Participants were queried about their endorsement of any options as a means of limiting access to unauthorised online gambling. A total of 187 submitters indicated their preferences or opposition to the options in this section. Among the four options presented, self-exclusion by gamblers emerged as the most favoured tool for restricting access to online gambling.

Self-exclusion

Respondents were asked about their support for self-exclusion as a tool to restrict access to unauthorised online gambling. The feedback indicated robust endorsement for allowing gamblers to voluntarily exclude themselves from using unauthorised online gambling websites.

Those who commented in favour of self-exclusion viewed it as a valuable and vital measure for limiting access to unauthorised online gambling, citing its potential to mitigate harm associated with online gambling. Despite the support, some contributors acknowledged the limitations of this tool. A few expressed concerns about the possibility of gamblers changing their minds after self-excluding and returning to online gambling.

Restrict credit card use

Participants were surveyed on their stance regarding the restriction of credit card use on gambling sites, either through blocking or banning their use on unauthorised websites. This option garnered the highest number of submissions compared to the other three options in this section.

Several supporters of this option believed that consumers should not be able to gamble on credit. However, some opponents of this option argued that while desirable, restricting credit card use would not be effective, as alternative payment methods could be used instead.

Restrict the use of free public WIFI

Respondents were queried about their stance on restricting the use of free public WIFI to access online gambling websites. This option garnered the least submissions compared to the other three options in this section.

Many contributors expressing their views on this option supported the idea of restricting free public WIFI to prevent gambling on unauthorised websites. However, certain supporters of this option acknowledged its potential limitations. They expressed doubts about its effectiveness, citing difficulties in mandating and monitoring restrictions on free public WIFI. Many contributors opposed restricting free public WIFI, deeming it impractical to limit people’s access to the Internet.

Prohibit Kiwis from accessing unauthorised online gambling

Respondents were inquired about their stance on prohibiting those residing in or visiting New Zealand from accessing unauthorised online gambling websites, whether overseas or onshore. This option received strong support, with 122 out of 167 submitters expressing their endorsement for prohibiting New Zealanders from visiting unauthorised online gambling websites.

However, some submitters opposed this option, deeming prohibition too restrictive. Instead of outright prohibition, one submitter suggested discouraging the use of unauthorised online websites, while another proposed making it mandatory to warn individuals when accessing an unauthorised gambling website.

Geo-blocking unauthorised websites

Many contributors endorsing this option believed geo-blocking to be an effective tool, with some asserting that it could deter and dissuade Kiwis from using unauthorised websites.

While less than half of the supporting submitters acknowledged the potential ineffectiveness of geo-blocking due to the prevalence of VPNs, some argued that individuals with gambling problems lacking VPN access would be restricted from unauthorised gambling.

Opponents of geo-blocking argued that VPNs rendered it ineffective, characterising it as a draconian tactic impinges on individuals’ autonomy, freedom of choice, and internet access rights.

Rules and Expectations for New Zealand-Based Gambling Operators

Respondents were asked about their stance on whether New Zealand-based gambling operators should be subject to different rules, expectations, and requirements than overseas gambling operators.

Many supporters of this option argued that New Zealand-based operators should indeed be subject to distinct rules, expectations, and requirements due to their obligation to comply with New Zealand law. Some contributors emphasised that New Zealand’s perspective on regulating online gambling differs from that of other countries.

However, many opponents of this option advocated for a ‘level playing field’ between domestic and overseas operators. They argued that such parity would ensure fairness, requiring both types of operators to adhere to the exact harm minimisation and return to community requirements.

Convergence Between Video Gaming and Gambling

Concerns were raised about the convergence of video games and gambling, particularly the normalisation of gambling-like behaviour among young people. Recommendations included influencing game developers, mandating warnings on games with gambling-like elements, or outright banning such games.

Influence online video game developers

Respondents were queried about whether gambling regulators should have an impact on online video game developers to exclude gambling-like elements in future video games.

Five supporters of influencing game developers elucidated the rationale behind their choice. Three submitters believed influencing game developers would be more effective than banning video games with gambling elements.

Another submitter expressed the hope that the government’s influence would not only exclude gambling-like elements but also foster developers’ understanding of the potential harm these elements could inflict on young children.

On the opposing side, two submitters rejected the idea of influencing game developers, asserting that it would not be successful. One submitter argued that developers would only be swayed if other countries adopted a similar stance.

Warnings on online video games

Respondents were asked whether gambling regulators should mandate warnings on online video games featuring gambling-like elements. Among the three options provided, requiring warnings garnered the highest level of support.

Many supporters of this option believed that placing warnings on video games would raise awareness about gambling elements, enabling parents, children, and young people to make informed choices about playing or avoiding such games. They contended that warnings would inform players of the potential risks of playing video games featuring gambling-like elements.

While only one submitter opposed placing warnings on video games, they argued that warnings alone would not dissuade addicted players. Instead, this submitter suggested that players should be required to undergo a short training module before playing video games with gambling-like elements.

Ban video games that demonstrate gambling characteristics

Supporters of this option argued that regulators should ban video games with gambling-like elements. They expressed concerns about the vulnerability of young people to these games and emphasised the need for protection. One submitter acknowledged the existence of people with addiction and stressed the importance of legislation ensuring that sites offering these games were not accessible to children and youth.

Opponents of the option believed that video games should not be banned, advocating for individual autonomy in deciding whether to play games with gambling-like elements. They suggested that education and persuasion would be more effective in discouraging people from engaging in such games. Some submitters expressed concerns about the potential unintended consequences of a ban, such as consumers being driven to the dark web. They preferred influencing or warning players about gambling-like elements.

Class 3 Operators

Respondents were asked whether Class 3 operators, currently licensed for large-scale lotteries, should be permitted to conduct their lotteries online or via telephone.

Most of those addressing this question focused solely on Class 3 operators, totalling 1946 Coastguard supporters, 685 Heart Foundation supporters, and 96 backers of Class 3 operators. The remaining 170 submitters, both in support or opposition, addressed various questions in the discussion document.

Several submitters favoured the option as it would reduce organisational costs, citing the significant expenses associated with printing and postage. They believed online lotteries would benefit the environment by lowering printing needs and streamlining the donation process. Online platforms were seen as convenient, offering secure online payment options and eliminating the need for mailing cheques.

Opponents of Class 3 operators running online lotteries expressed concerns about the proliferation of gambling options. They believed that online operations added to the existing array of gambling opportunities, emphasising the need for limitations in some form.

Other Key Themes Raised by Submitters

Several additional themes emerged from submitters:

Class 4 Operators: Calls to lift limits on Class 4 operators, concerns about their financial ability, and links to problem gambling.
Identification: Strong identification requirements for online gamblers, with suggestions like RealMe or photo identification.
Sales Promotions: Suggestions to amend the Gambling Act to allow sales promotions through remote interactive devices.
Community Consultation Meetings: Feedback on harm minimisation, the relevance of the three pillars, the importance of licensing, concerns about enforcement, disruptive methods, and the need for education.

Conclusion: Future of Online Gambling in New Zealand

As New Zealand stands at the crossroads of online gambling regulation, the myriad perspectives and recommendations from the discussion document and community consultation meetings provide a rich tapestry of insights.

Navigating the future entails balancing harm minimisation, regulatory consistency, and the evolving dynamics of technology and gaming. This requires careful consideration of licensing frameworks, identification measures, taxation strategies, and the intricate interplay between gaming and gambling.

Ultimately, the path forward hinges on collaborative efforts to ensure a thriving, responsible, and well-regulated online gambling environment in New Zealand.