Online Gambling is the process of placing a wager or bet through a computerised system on a game or event. This can be done through websites or apps on computers, tablets or mobile phones. In order to play online, a person must have a device that supports the internet, an account with the website (which usually requires a simple sign-up form and a deposit of money), and some funds to bet with. The winnings are then sent to this account, so a person must be careful not to use these funds on anything else.
The online gambling phenomenon has grown rapidly in recent years and it is now one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy. However, this rapid growth has also led to increased levels of problematic gambling.
This is partly due to the fact that gambling opportunities are more easily accessible, particularly in areas of disadvantage. The high-intensity products and technology used in these sites can lead to addictive patterns of behaviour. This can be enhanced by aggressive marketing and promotion. Examples include sponsorship and colocation of gambling products with popular sports leagues, and the placement of advertising on social media.
Several studies have compared online gamblers with offline nonproblematic gamblers and have attempted to identify risk factors for online gambling problems. These studies have primarily focused on the comparison of factors that distinguish online and offline gamblers, rather than on the distinction between online problem and nonproblematic gamblers.
