WHY GAMBLING IS A LOSING IDEA
This article was copied from Counselor Sams Blog feedspot.com 10/23/2020 (attribution)
Participation in online gambling saw an increase, according to media reports, throughout the early months of COVID-19 restrictions with many sports suspended, and pubs, clubs and casinos temporarily closed. There was a risk that those who preferred to gamble in venue would turn to online gambling during this time.
Several restrictions have now eased as clubs and hotels reopened for business and the NRL and AFL competitions resumed, meaning more gambling options are available again. While online gambling could have been a distraction from boredom during restrictions, some may continue to gamble online, but it’s important to remember it’s not always worth the risk
In Australia, online gambling is regulated by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Online casino games and slot machines using real money are illegal in Australia, so if you come across a site offering these games online, it is most likely they are operated in another country even though they look Australian.
Before you gamble online, check if it’s a legal website on this register of licensed providers in Australia. If it’s not on the register it could be illegal.
- Online gambling is not a fair game: Some gambling sites may look and feel legitimate, however, they may be based overseas outside the jurisdiction of Australian laws and consumer protections. Although over 65 of these sites have been blocked under Australian law, new sites appear all the time and many are targeted to Australians. On these black-market sites, you’re likely to get ripped off. If you win, you may never see your winnings. The site may disappear with your money or steal from your bank accounts. Unfortunately, you might not realise the site is dodgy until it’s too late. These sites are the gambling equivalent of scaling up a cliff-face without a rope or support. Information on gambling on overseas websites can be found on the Gambling Help NSW website. Further information about protecting yourself from illegal online gambling sites is available on the ACMA website.
- The odds are against you: Although many online gambling providers sell themselves as an easy way to make money, a bit of harmless fun, like any form of gambling, the house always wins. The system is set up to make the owners money. They will always take their percentages and the gambler will always lose in the long run. To find out more information on the real odds of winning when gambling, check out the Gambling Help Online website.
- Your phone — a ‘casino in your pocket’?: Online gamblers have access to multiple gambling apps on their phone. It’s important to consider how dangerous it is to have such easy access to gambling 24/7. With the new socially distanced lifestyles most of us are still observing under COVID-19, getting into the gambling ‘zone’ has never been easier or riskier. Over the course of an evening, money can leave your credit or debit card with ease.
Recently, Gambling Help counsellors have heard the story of some people gaining early access to their superannuation and losing it within days.
If you need some ideas about how to get started on improving your finances, mental health, or just want to chat, we can help. Get in touch with a trained counselor 24/7 on 1800 858 858 or chat to us online.
If you come across a dodgy gambling provider or want to make a complaint, you can get in touch with ACMA via their website, who will investigate further.
This article was copied from Counselor Sams Blog feedspot.com 10/23/2020
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The National Council on Problem Gambling operates the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network (1-800-522-4700). The network is a single national ...
This article was copied from the internet 10/20/20 (attribution)
