Scratch card games: a risky commodity?

Despite their popularity and image as light entertainment, scratch card games can be a gateway to excessive gambling. This is particularly true when they are played both at the point of sale and online, or through high-stakes tickets, according to a study conducted by Concordia University (Montreal) at the request of the ANJ.

According to figures released by the Autorité nationale des jeux (ANJ), 20 million French people wagered nearly €10.7 billion on scratch card games in 2024. Long perceived as a harmless activity, these games are now being targeted by the regulatory authorities. 

The base of regular scratchcard players is very broad, and the practice has become commonplace. This is why the ANJ has asked the Chair in Gambling Research at Concordia University in Montreal to conduct an in-depth scientific study of scratch card games. The aim? To obtain the evidence needed to improve the way in which these games are regulated and to step up action to prevent the associated risks.

A rigorous study

The study involved 5,019 active gamers. It is based on a mixed methodology combining a quantitative survey and focus groups. The researchers analysed the profiles, habits, risk levels and psychological motivations of scratch card players in France.

The findings are clear: almost a third of scratch card players are at moderate or high risk of developing problematic behaviour. And of these players at overall risk, three quarters have specific problems with scratch card games.

Aggravating factor

The study places particular emphasis on the increased risks associated with multi-channel gambling. Gamblers who play exclusively at the point of sale show the most moderate behaviour. On the other hand, those who alternate between physical and digital gambling, or play mainly online, show higher spending, greater frequency of play and a higher level of risk.

In the case of online gambling, the permanent accessibility and intangibility of bets disinhibit gamblers’ behaviour, which can lead to excessive gambling. Among high-risk gamblers, the study shows a particular sensitivity to features similar to slot machines or video games: sound and visual effects, autoplay and gamification.

Ticket prices: another risk marker

The appeal of scratch card games is based on a fine alchemy. For small amounts, it is the fun aspect that dominates. For higher stakes, it is the promise of significant winnings that stimulates players.

Tickets costing €3 or more represent a tipping point. From this amount onwards, gambling becomes more frequent, the stakes increase and the perception of the game changes. While games of €2 or less are often associated with impulse purchases (small change, to round things off), tickets of €5 or €10 are experienced as genuine financial commitments, with a greater expectation of winning and a greater aversion to loss.

Diverse profiles, common risks

The profile of gamblers varies according to age, gender and gambling channel. Men aged 25 to 44 are more likely to prefer high stakes, particularly online. Conversely, women and senior citizens prefer low-price tickets in retail outlets.

But whatever the profile, the accumulation of small bets or the repetition of purchases, particularly in a multi-channel context, creates a real risk of loss of control.

The influence of advertising

Advertising and promotions also play a central role in encouraging people to gamble. A third of gamblers admit that marketing campaigns influence their behaviour. This proportion rises significantly among high-risk gamblers, who say they are attracted by novelty, the hope of winnings or the jackpots on display.

The ambiguity of advertising messages was also singled out. According to several participants, even an FDJ advertisement with no explicit link to scratch cards is perceived as an implicit call to gamble.

A call to action for regulators

For the ANJ, this study provides the evidence it needs to adjust its supervision and prevention policies. The widespread use of scratch card games in French society, their massive distribution, and their online accessibility require increased vigilance.

Limiting targeted advertising, adapting online games to reduce their addictive nature, and raising players’ awareness of high-risk betting thresholds are just some of the avenues explored.