Safe Gambling Practices
If you’re looking for some advice on how you can stay safe while gambling online, then following these practices will all help to keep a healthy check on your gambling behaviour.
Only Deposit What You Can Afford to Lose
The UK Gambling Commission’s ban on credit card payments in 2020 has helped gamblers control their spending at online casinos that fall under its jurisdiction, including many operators in Ireland. While such formal restrictions can help curb problematic behaviour, the fact is that placing bets with money you can afford to lose is the only way to ensure gambling remains an enjoyable hobby. Before any gambling session, have an idea in your mind about what you can reasonably afford to lose, and make sure you don’t exceed this amount.
Make Use of On-Site Limiters
Making use of on-site limiters is a great way to ensure you’re never betting beyond your means. All licensed casinos have on-site limiters available in their account management tools, which can be used to place daily, weekly or monthly limits. If you think these on-site limiters don’t go far enough for your situation, online casinos also have self-exclusion tools that lock you out of your gambling accounts for weeks, months or years at a time.
Never Chase Your Losses
One key indicator of problematic gambling behaviour is the compulsion to chase losses. What is perceived as an opportunity to make a quick fix often exacerbates the problem, and punters can end up in a far worse situation than they would’ve been if they’d just called it quits. It should always be remembered that a run of bad luck doesn’t influence RTP rates and variance, and you won’t ever be ‘due’ a win.
Ensure You Understand the Game You’re Playing
If you’re looking to play a classic casino game such as roulette, make sure you’ve spent a bit of time researching the game’s rules and how the rounds of betting work. This will help you make informed choices on how and when to bet, and lessen the chances of getting flummoxed during a round of play.
For slot machines, most online casinos will provide background details on the games hosted on their site – including RTP rates, payline information, and how players can trigger bonus rounds and free spins. If they don’t, there are plenty of reviews available elsewhere online that help break these games down.
Research Betting Markets Thoroughly
If it’s sports betting you’re interested in, then spend some time researching the sports and betting markets you’d like to wager in before placing a bet. In addition, make sure you’ve read and understood all the associated terms and conditions, as these can sometimes bring unwelcome surprises. For example, whether or not a bookmaker considers the final result of the football to be at 90 minutes or after extra time.
Always Play Whilst Sober and Clear-Headed
This is another golden rule of responsible gambling. Applying other safer play practices is made fundamentally more difficult if you’re in no fit state to gamble in the first place. The loss of inhibitions due to being intoxicated or in an emotionally volatile state makes gamblers more likely to over-bet, chase losses, and to behave irresponsibly online.
Recognise the Warning Signs
The gambling industry is working hard to make sure punters are aware of the warning signs of problem gambling. Indications that may lead to gambling-related harm include an increased amount of time spent gambling, viewing gambling as a source of income, lying about your gambling habits, and having gambling affect your social, domestic and working lives. And if you find yourself neglecting some – or all – of the safer play practices listed here, it’s important to recognise the warning signs and seek appropriate help.
Help and Support are Available
As a gambling affiliate, it’s our responsibility to promote support services and encourage safer gambling practices. If you think that you or anyone you know may be suffering from gambling-related harm, it’s vital that you seek out professional help. Remember that you are not alone, and that there are organisations, charities, and helplines that will provide you with the care and treatment you need. Don’t ever suffer in silence.