The Downfalls of Online Gambling

 July 23, 2021      Michael Bickerton

In today’s rapidly digital environment, online gambling is very popular. People can play in the privacy of their own homes or offices, in secret so that no one knows they’re playing, and they can get a lot of the same gaming thrills as they would at a typical casino. Online gambling, like traditional gambling, carries a number of risks and can result in serious consequences for those who engage in it. There are also some risks specific to internet gambling that are not present in traditional gambling. Find out more about these in the sections below.

 

  • People who acquire access to your internet account through the following methods:
    • Phishing emails deceive you into divulging your password and personal information on a bogus website.
    • Inadvertently informing others or disclosing information to family and acquaintances.
  • Identity theft is a crime in which criminals gain access to your account and other personal information stored on your computer as a result of viruses or spyware.
  • Visiting phoney and deceptive websites.
  • The promise of big incentives entices you to establish an account.
  • The greater earnings in ‘play for fun’ versions are luring people into playing actual online games.
  • Becoming addicted to gambling.
  • Betting transactions may be classified as “cash” by some credit card providers, which may impose a fixed and/or interest charge from the date of payment.
  • Downloading ostensibly helpful ‘cheats,’ but which may contain viruses or spyware.
  • Some gambling sites’ chat features (such as bingo games) might lead to: Inadvertently or recklessly disclosing personal information, such as a password, email address, or age.
  • All of the dangers that come with using internet chat rooms.

 

If you believe your gambling is out of control, you can seek free, confidential information, advice, or counselling support from NCP Gambling. Call 1-800-522-4700 toll free, or chat online at https://www.gamtalk.org (8am – midnight, seven days a week).

 

We got all the tips you need on how to stay safe. Click here to read more.

 

Want to learn more about online gambling? Learn about, internet casino gambling, online gambling in the USA, Canada, or outside North America, downfalls of online gambling, and staying safe when gambling online.

 

Amy Chung, Oakville, ON,  July 2021

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