Gambling is an activity that involves risking something of value (money, property or even life) on a game of chance. It can be done on a physical level in bricks-and-mortar casinos and betting shops, or digitally on gambling websites and games of chance apps. A number of online video games also feature gambling elements – known as skin betting – with players wagering on the outcome of events in the game. Like other forms of addiction, compulsive gambling can damage family, romantic and work relationships, cause financial troubles and lead to depression, anxiety and stress. People with certain mental illnesses may be particularly at-risk of gambling disorder.
The growth of the Internet and mobile devices has made it easier for gamblers to participate in online gambling. This is partly because gambling websites and apps are accessible at any time of the day with a reliable internet connection, making them easy to access from any location. Online gambling can also be more discreet than visiting a bricks-and-mortar casino, as it is hard for friends and family members to notice gambling activities.
Despite the increasing prevalence of online gambling, research is still needed to understand its potential risks. Identifying and acting on early risk indicators is one way to reduce the harms sustained by people who gamble online. However, only a limited number of online operators have shared their data with researchers and implemented policies to detect and intervene in problematic behavior.