Key points:
- Electronic gaming machines and online casino games are associated with the highest risk of harm
- Loot boxes, often used by under-18s, pose significant gambling risks and blur the line between gaming and gambling
- GambleAware recommends stricter regulations, including lower stakes, mandatory breaks and enhanced safeguards for online gambling
GambleAware’s report, produced in collaboration with Bournemouth University, examines the varying risks posed by different gambling products.
The research found that users of land-based electronic gaming machines, such as those in bookmakers and casinos, were over ten times more likely than average to experience gambling-related harm. Online casino games, offering quick rewards and fast-paced play, were linked to a fourfold increase in the likelihood of harm.
Loot boxes, a feature in many video games, were identified as a particular concern due to their accessibility and appeal to younger audiences. The report found that 50% of loot box users were at some level of risk, with many exhibiting behaviours consistent with problem gambling.
The charity has called for more stringent restrictions on loot boxes, including limiting their availability to individuals over 18.
Good to know: GambleAware has recommended the National Lottery improve its player safeguards and provide clearer links to support services for those at risk
The research also highlighted the National Lottery’s widespread impact, noting that 600,000 people experiencing problem gambling had participated in the draw, while 500,000 had used scratch cards.
The study further emphasised that the number of gambling activities an individual engages in, significantly increases their risk of harm. Those participating in multiple forms of gambling were more likely to experience severe issues, prompting GambleAware to suggest creating shared databases for operators to identify at-risk individuals.
These findings come as the UK implements a mandatory gambling levy, projected to raise £100m ($123m) annually for harm prevention. However, GambleAware CEO Zoë Osmond expressed concerns that current measures in the Gambling White Paper, such as differing online slot stake limits based on age, do not adequately protect consumers.
