GambleAware calls for a review of the laws
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25 Jan 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes A recent study conducted by Bournemouth University has highlighted alarming risks associated with certain forms of gambling. Slot machines, online gambling and loot boxes are said to be catalysts for problematic behaviour, leading the GambleAware organisation to call for stricter regulations.
Slot machines: a much higher risk than we think
According to Bournemouth researchers, land-based slot machines available at bookmakers and casinos pose a significant threat to gamblers. The study found that users of these machines are ten times more likely to suffer from gambling problems than the average person.
“These machines are designed to be addictive, with intermittent reinforcement elements that hook players.”
Dr Ruijie Wang
In comparison, players face risks four times higher when playing at an online casino. These figures highlight the urgent need to review the standards governing slot machines and online gaming platforms.
Loot boxes: beware of addiction
Loot boxes, present in many video games, function as virtual chests containing random rewards. Their mechanism is based on a model similar to games of chance: players pay for a chance to obtain rare or valuable items.
A striking figure from the study indicates that 50% of loot box users are at risk of addiction. The interaction between these practices and addictive behaviors is particularly worrying, especially among young adults.
Banned in some European countries
Several European countries have already taken action. In Belgium, loot boxes have been banned since 2018, while the Netherlands is actively lobbying the European Union to ban these practices across the country. These actions aim to protect players, particularly minors, from the dangers of a system that is too close to gambling.
The risks of the National Lottery
The report also highlights risks for customers of the British National Lottery. Nearly 600,000 players are considered to be at risk of addiction. These figures are a reminder that even forms of gambling perceived as harmless can lead to serious consequences.
To address this reality, GambleAware recommends that the lottery increase the visibility of support services, including through partnerships to guide players in difficulty.
Strong measures
Faced with these findings, GambleAware calls for rapid and coordinated action. The organization recommends in particular:
- Limit stakes: limit the amount of bets on online games of chance for all adults, regardless of age.
- Strengthen restrictions on slot machines: review the design and accessibility of slot machines in gaming rooms and physical casinos.
- Developing support tools: Working to develop tailored tools to identify and support at-risk gamblers.
Zoë Osmond, Managing Director of GambleAware, said:
“No gambling is completely risk-free. However, some types of gambling carry increased risks, with serious impacts on people’s lives.”