Online Gambling is where gamblers place wagers using the internet, often at a casino site. Gambling sites offer a variety of games including slots, table games and poker. Most online casinos are regulated and licensed by their respective gambling authorities. Some are also members of eCOGRA, which is an independent third party that tests and audits the integrity of casino gaming software.
Online gambling is legal in some states in the US, some provinces of Canada, and most countries in Europe. However, it is not without its risks, especially for children and young people. It can lead to financial strain, poor school performance, depression and isolation. It can also be addictive and difficult to quit. If you or someone you know has a problem with online gambling, help is available through GamCare.
In the UK, online gambling is growing rapidly. The latest figures from the Gambling Commission show that it represents a quarter of all gambling activity. That’s up from just under a fifth of all gambling activity in 2022.
Most online gambling takes place in the home, but one in five online gamblers have also used their mobile phone to play at work or while commuting. As more of our lives move into the digital realm, it’s not surprising that the lines between work and leisure time are blurring.