Offering Greater Protection to Our Users

Gamban Extends Blocking Capabilities to Crypto and Trading Platforms

Gamban recognises an increasingly strong overlap between traditional gambling and emerging investment platforms, where there is significant capacity for harm due to exposure to risk from speculative trading and volatility.This follows research undertaken by Gamban in June 2021 on whether different forms of trading can be considered gambling, which found an overwhelming proportion of the general public viewed investing in cryptocurrency as a form of gambling. The report can be found <a href="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/Public_Report_Is_trading_a_form_of_gambling.pdf">here</a>.In the interest of our users, who have experienced harm from gambling, we have decided that these sites should be blocked by Gamban.The difficulty has arisen from these platforms offering different products, some more comparable to gambling than others but without a clear distinction between them. We must therefore be led by the most harmful product a platform offers and block based on this criteria. If a trading platform offers any of the following, it will be added to our block list:<ul><li>CFDs</li><li>Cryptocurrency exchanges</li><li>Binary options</li><li>Forex trading</li></ul> We recognise to some of our users, this approach will appear quite blunt. However, we feel that where inappropriately regulated products emerge, which exist at the intersection between gambling and investing, but are more akin to speculating, Gamban must block these if it is to remain the safety net our users rely on. The changes will be introduced from 1st August 2021. If you have any questions or concerns please contact info@gamban.com.

Gamban Blocks Trading Platforms

Protecting Ourselves from Gambling Advertisements

Limiting Gambling Ads Online

One question we’re often asked is, “Does Gamban block gambling adverts online?”. Currently, we do not. However, there are many options out there to help limit or block gambling ads. With how aggressive gambling advertising has become in the last few years, not just on television or billboards but online and on social media too, it’s become more and more difficult to avoid these potential triggers. Between 2014 to 2017 online marketing spend in the UK alone increased from £376m to £725m - almost doubling in just 3 years. Constant exposure to these advertisements is known to have an adverse effect on those who are at-risk or in recovery.Over lockdown, all retail gambling venues closed. This meant that activities that generated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/news-action-and-statistics/Statistics-and-research/Covid-19-research/Covid-19-updated-July-2020/Covid-19-and-its-impact-on-gambling-%E2%80%93-what-we-know-so-far-July-2020.aspx">50%</a> of the total money made from gambling (excluding lotteries) paused. To cover the cost of these physical locations closing, much of their marketing spend would be used to promote their online casinos - with around<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2020-03-19a.1247.0"> 80% </a>of gambling advertising budgets now being spent online.This increase in advertising is even affecting those too young to gamble. According to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/651381/england-and-wales-social-media-gambling-advertising-awareness-of-youths/">2020 survey conducted</a> among youths aged 11 to 16 in the United Kingdom, 31% of respondents stated that they had seen gambling advertisements on social media websites more than once a week, and 16% said they had seen gambling ads on social media once a week.My work often involves looking at or being exposed to online gambling to some degree. So advertising platforms see me as someone with some interest in gambling and, therefore, will show me more gambling ads. We've all done similarly; clicked on a pair of trainers you liked the look of, not purchased them, then been stalked around the internet by an advert trying to entice you to buy. However, this type of advertising applies to any device connected to a single wifi router. So, any device on my wifi (many that aren't even my own!) will be served gambling ads. If you live with someone impacted by gambling, trying to avoid all possible triggers, depending on the household's internet habits, can be an almost impossible task. So we have outlined some of the measures you can take.<h2>Facebook</h2>Although you cannot completely opt-out of or block seeing advertisements, you can influence the types of advertisements you see by providing feedback or hiding ads and advertisers that you do not want to see.<h5>To hide an ad:</h5><ul><li>Click more in the top right-hand corner of the ad.</li><li>Choose Hide ad.</li><li>Follow the on-screen instructions.</li></ul> <h5>To hide ads from an advertiser:</h5><ul><li>Click more in the top right-hand corner of the ad and choose Why am I seeing this ad?</li><li>Next to Hide all ads from this advertiser, click Hide.</li></ul> In addition, you can <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/help/247395082112892/?ref=u2u">adjust your ads preferences</a>. Your settings can be found <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/ads/preferences/?entry_product=ad_settings_screen">here</a>.<h2>X (Twitter)</h2>Similarly to Facebook, X (Twitter) doesn’t allow you to opt-out of all advertising. Some ways to help cut down on gambling advertising, or gambling-related content are:<ul><li>Blocking tweets from individual gambling companies. Click the down arrow and look for the option to "Block @..."</li><li>If the tweet is an advert, you can in the same menu select "Not interested in this ad"</li></ul> You can also select "Why am I seeing this ad", and access these two pages using the links provided <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://twitter.com/settings/account/personalization">here</a>. On this page, you can deselect interests that could lead to more gambling-related content, one of which is potentially "gambling," but un-ticking sport-related interests like "Football" could also help.You can also choose to mute specific words, phrases, usernames, or hashtags to prevent you from seeing content you wish to avoid. You can find out more about how to do this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/advanced-twitter-mute-options">here.</a><h2>Google</h2>Google has provided the following information: See Google's <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://support.google.com/ads/answer/2662922?hl=en&amp;visit_id=1-636649087480150859-1435553078&amp;rd=1">remove unwanted ads</a> external page.<h5>Users can:</h5><ul><li>Block specific advertisers</li></ul>This feature exists on Google Search, Maps, YouTube and Gmail when you are signed in to your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/2662856#everywhere">Google account</a>. This will allow users to block advertisers such as Unibet, PaddyPower, 32Red, etc. To block individual advertisers with Google, click the small downwards arrow to the right of a search ad, select "About the advertiser", then change the "Show ads from ..." toggle to off.<ul><li>Mute This Ad</li></ul>"Mute This Ad" is a small overlay that appears in the top right corner of an advertisement. This lets Google know you no longer want to see this or related ads. Much of this is not an exact science, and amending the settings above will not guarantee you are protected from seeing gambling-related content and adverts, but it may help reduce the volume. <h2>Ad-blocking software</h2>For an added layer of protection, there is software and plugins designed to block all online advertising.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://ublockorigin.com/">https://ublockorigin.com/</a>If gambling ads are proving too much of a potential trigger, block gambling at the source with Gamban. If willpower slips, Gamban doesn't. <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=CTA&amp;utm_campaign=Blocking%20Ads%20Blog" role="button">Get Gamban Today</a>

How to Block Gambling Adverts Online

We outline some of the ways you can block or limit gambling advertisement online.

Do You Think You May Have a Gambling Problem?

We go over some of the common signs that point to gambling addiction

Gambling can take many forms, from betting on racing to playing the National Lottery. While gambling can be entertaining, there are some obvious (and less obvious) downsides. You could run up debt, endangering your chances to borrow money in the future, and even strain your mental health and personal relationships.Estimates for how many people are affected by gambling addiction range from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.begambleaware.org/news/new-gambling-prevalence-methodology-review-published?s=09">0.7% to 2.4% of the UK's population</a>. Gambling, like drugs or alcohol, can stimulate the brain's reward system, leading to addiction. People who are addicted to gambling often continue to do so despite experiencing negative consequences financially, professionally, or personally.Some common signs of gambling addiction include:<h4>Making Larger, Riskier Bets</h4>A casual gambler may spend some of their disposable income on gambling activities. When their losses exceed what they are willing to spend, they stop. Gambling addiction is often characterised by the inability to control or stop gambling, carrying on even after losing more than you can afford usually to chase losses.<h4>Feeling Guilt After Gambling</h4>Beyond the initial feelings of sadness from losing, when someone has a gambling problem they may feel depressed and perhaps experience feelings of shame and guilt.<h4>Using Gambling To Distract From Other Problems</h4>Like other forms of addiction, compulsive gambling is sometimes used as a coping mechanism used to mask negative emotions and distract and escape life’s stressors and problems. Even if someone uses gambling to avoid dealing with negative feelings, the adverse effects of gambling include emotional side effects. <h4>Hiding Gambling Habits</h4>Lying to hide an addiction and its related behaviour is a core symptom of substance abuse, but gambling addiction is no exception. The obsession and compulsion to gamble can be so strong that the person will go to any lengths to place the next bet, and this usually includes lying to cover up where they are, what they are doing and what happened to their money. <h4>Social Isolation</h4>Gambling addiction often takes up a tremendous amount of time, missing out on events and other important obligations. Gambling while at work, when you should be sleeping or spending time with your family are also signs of addiction.<h4>Feeling Strong Urges To Gamble</h4>Addiction causes people to ruminate about their previous gambling experiences, and to think of little else than the next time they can place a bet. Even when there is a need to concentrate on everyday life activities, it can be difficult to think of anything else.<h2>Problem Gambling Self-Assessment</h2>If you're not sure whether gambling is a problem for you, GamCare offers a short test where you answer nine questions to understand more about your relationship with gambling. It's completely confidential and won't ask you for any personal information. <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/understanding-gambling-problems/self-assessment-tool/" role="button">Start Your Test</a>Once complete, you'll be given information about the extent to which gambling may be causing a problem for you, as well as steps you can take to stay safe. If you’re in the UK, Gamban is free through the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.talkbanstop.com/">TalkBanStop pilot</a>, which includes support from GamCare, and self-exclusion provided by GAMSTOP.

6 Signs You Might Be Addicted To Gambling

Do you think you may have a gambling problem? We go over some of the common signs that point to gambling addiction.

Do You Know the Signs to Look For?

Are You Worried Your Partner May Have a Gambling Problem?

Gambling addiction is more common than you might have previously thought.You may take part in gambling socially, or perhaps you’re even planning a trip to  Las Vegas with some friends. For many people, it may be a fun, controlled activity. But for some, these situations can get out of hand, especially for someone struggling with a gambling addiction.In 2016, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/PDF/survey-data/Gambling-behaviour-in-Great-Britain-2016.pdf">the Gambling Commission reported</a> that there are 350,000 problem gamblers in the UK with two million considered ‘at-risk’. According to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/may/19/uk-gambling-addiction-yougov-research">a YouGov survey</a> last year, there could be as many as 1.4 million ‘problem gamblers’ and 7% of adults, or 3.6 million people, reported having been negatively affected by someone else’s gambling. Anecdotal evidence suggests that each problem gambler affects five to 12 other individuals. Gambling addiction can devastate relationships, destroying the sense of trust between partners, which is often a result of the secrecy or lies the addiction leads to.Do you know the signs to look for if your friend or loved one is among the many people who suffer from an addiction to gambling?<h2>What are the signs your partner is a gambler?</h2>Unlike substance misuse or sex addiction, it can be much easier to hide the signs of problem gambling from others. More so than ever now, given the recent increase in accessibility and prevalence of online gambling in recent years.<ul><li>Spending lots of time away. Being away from the home and being vague or secretive. Some gamblers will try to gamble discreetly and may get up early in the morning to do so while their spouse or family are asleep.</li><li>Emotional highs and lows. Gambling can affect mood. Does this person sometimes seem incredibly excitable and positive but then very low, frustrated or even angry at times?</li><li>A change in behaviour over time. You may feel like your partner’s behaviour has changed gradually, becoming increasingly difficult or secretive.</li><li>Secretive around finances. Does your partner become cagey or defensive on the topic of money? Have they taken steps to conceal bank statements?</li><li>Money going out of accounts without explanation. If you are spending large amounts of cash, it’s not always possible to hide it. Have you noticed any unexplained payments coming out of your bank accounts?</li><li>Secretive around internet use. Does your spouse regularly delete their internet history, or if questioned about their use of the internet, are they ambiguous and evasive?</li></ul> <h2>What Can I Do?</h2>If you suspect someone you know of having a gambling problem, there are many support organisations out there. Encouraging them to get help from a professional is the most effective support you can give them.However, it is important to remember that although you have been affected by a person's gambling to the point where you are ready for them to change, they may not be ready yet. You can seek professional help and offer support, but change requires the other person to be willing to engage with this support.<h2>Talking to Someone With Gambling Problems</h2>Many gamblers may not know they have a problem, and some may deny how excessive it has become. As a result, it can be a huge step to accept that their gambling is a problem.<ul><li>Talk it through. Although confronting someone about a gambling issue can be challenging, the best thing you can do is start by asking someone if the issue exists. Admitting to the problem is often the hardest part.</li><li>Explain how you feel. How does their gambling impact you and make you feel? It is important to discuss this and process your own feelings.</li><li>Be supportive. Show them that you are willing to be there and support them. Stay calm, be discreet and learn about what they're experiencing, so that you can be there when they need you.</li><li>Be patient. You may feel like you need to make appointments for them or go with them to therapy sessions, and encouragement is good, but constantly pushing may cause them to become stressed and turn back to gambling. Gambling recovery takes time and relapse is part of the process of recovery.</li><li>Avoid confrontation. Do not lose control, if you try to speak to the person and they become confrontational, take a deep breath and avoid arguing.</li><li>Don’t be quick to judge. Rather than condemn their actions, be supportive and ask questions. Asking questions shows a willingness to understand their problem and help.</li><li>Support groups. There are many problem gambling support groups and organisations out there, whether that be: contacting a GP, counsellor or charity who can provide them with advice and support. There are also many support groups dedicated to helping those who are affected by others' problem gambling. Find a list of support organisations below.</li></ul> <h4>National Gambling Helpline</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/">The National Gambling Helpline</a> (0808 8020 133) operates 24/7, 365 days a year. . The service is delivered by gambling treatment provider Gamcare and will give you advice on what your next steps should be. Their advisors are trained to deliver both emotional support and accurate information to aid those in need.<h4>Gamblers Anonymous</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/">Gamblers Anonymous</a> is a support group for those who are struggling with gambling problems. GA is made up of men and women who share their experiences in the hopes of overcoming their common problem and assisting others in recovering from a gambling addiction.<h4>Gam-Anon</h4>Gam-Anon is a support group for people who are husbands, wives, partners, relatives or close friends of someone with a gambling problem and who have been affected by this. Gam-Anon work to provide practical advice and assistance to affected others whilst also creating more awareness and understanding of gambling-related harm.<h4>GamFam</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.co.uk/">GamFam</a> is a recovery and support group designed specifically for families of the disordered gambler. It offers a strong support network so others can understand the full extent of the problem and speak with those who can relate to their situation. It provides advice on how families can help themselves, along with practical tips for the day-to-day.   <h4>StepChange</h4>Citizens Advice has joined forces with GambleAware to provide assistance to gamblers, and those affected by gambling who are struggling with debt through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.stepchange.org/">StepChange</a>. The StepChange Debt Charity offers free and confidential debt advice over the telephone and online to those in need of support.

Does My Partner Have a Gambling Problem?

Do you know the signs to look for? We run through some practical tips for anyone who thinks their partner may be addicted to gambling.

Are Young Gamers Being Primed for Gambling?

Game Quitters’ Cam Adair Joins Us to Discuss the Links Between Gaming and Gambling

Game Quitters' Cam Adair joins us to discuss the links between gaming and gambling, loot boxes, black market skins gambling and more.<figure><div><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eN_rbP-arA0" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div></figure><blockquote>"Covid-19 has accelerated the convergence between gaming and gambling and the impact on individuals is felt across the globe. It's never been more important for professionals to understand the risks associated with loot boxes, skin gambling and esports betting." - Cam Adair, GameQuiters</blockquote>With younger audiences growing increasingly tech-savvy and gambling being offered in variously more complex ways, growing better understanding and awareness is crucial to protecting those who are at risk; whether that be a concerned parent or a therapy professional.Skins gambling, esports betting and loot boxes. Learn the latest trends on the convergence of gaming and gambling by watching the replay of our webinar.

The Links Between Gaming and Gambling

Game Quitters' Cam Adair joins us to discuss the links between gaming and gambling, loot boxes, black market skins gambling and more.

We Dispel Some of the Myths Surrounding Gambling Addiction

Gambling Addiction Is a Complex Issue and We've Broken down Some Common Misconceptions. 

Is gambling negatively affecting your life and the lives of those around you? Are you looking for help with gambling addiction? Or information on how to stop online gambling? Whether you're looking to quit gambling altogether, or just cut down the time you spend playing, there are organisations out there to help you. <h2>Understanding Gambling Addiction</h2>We break down some of the myths surrounding gambling addiction.<ul><li>Myth: “Problem gamblers gamble every day.” </li></ul>It's not how much someone gambles that determines addiction; some problem gamblers may only gamble once a month. Rather it is the mental, physical, and relational effects that suggest an addiction.<ul><li>Myth: “Gambling is only a problem when the money is all gone.”</li></ul>The amount won or lost does not determine the addiction. Some gamblers may incur enough debt that the financial consequences begin to impact on their lives, but this is not always the case. Some gamblers could win big, and then lose all of it next week.<ul><li>Myth: “You can’t become addicted to something like gambling.”</li></ul>The "rush" the gamblers get, the feeling of euphoria that motivates the gambler to keep on with it, involves the same changes in brain chemistry experienced by alcoholics and drug addict. If the compulsion to continue becomes overwhelming, the individual becomes addicted, even though they may deny that they're having a problem.<ul><li>Myth: “Problem gambling is just a financial issue.”</li></ul>Compulsive gambling is an emotional problem with financial consequences. Even if they pay off the gambler’s debts, they will still be a person with an uncontrolled compulsion.<ul><li>Myth: “Only irresponsible people have a problem with gambling.”</li></ul>Gambling problems impact people of all intelligence levels, from all backgrounds. Previously responsible and strong-willed individuals are just as likely as anyone else to develop a gambling addiction.Although it may feel like you’re powerless to stop gambling, there are many services and programmes out there to help you overcome the problem, repair your relationships and finances, and finally regain control of your life.<h2>Help for Problem Gamblers:</h2>Whether you're looking for anything from therapy to simply cooling off gambling for awhile there is a service available to you. <a href="https://gamban.com/help">Find more helpful services on our Help page</a>.For anyone in the UK, the NHS offers <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/">Cognitive behavioural therapy</a>, evidence suggests that gambling can be successfully treated in the same way as other addictions.<h2>Treatment Services and Support Groups:</h2><a href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/">GamCare:</a> offers free information, support and counselling for problem gamblers in the UK. GamCare also runs the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and also offers face-to-face counselling. <a href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/">Click here to find out more about GamCare.</a>National Problem Gambling Clinic: If you live in England or Wales, are 16 years of age or older and have gambling-related complex issues, you can refer to this NHS specialist clinic for problem gamblers. See if you meet the <a href="https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/services/mental-health-services/addictions-and-substance-misuse/national-problem-gambling-clinic">criteria for this service</a>.<a href="https://www.gordonmoody.org.uk/">Gordon Moody Association:</a> The <a href="https://www.gordonmoody.org.uk/">Gordon Moody Association</a> offers residential courses for men and women who have problems with gambling – email help@gordonmoody.org.uk or call 01384 241292 to find out more. They also runs the <a href="https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/">Gambling Therapy website</a>, offering online support to problem gamblers and their friends and family. <a href="https://www.gordonmoody.org.uk/">Click here to find out more about Gordon Moody Association.</a><a href="https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/">Gamblers Anonymous UK:</a> <a href="https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/">Gamblers Anonymous UK</a> runs local support groups that use the same 12-step approach to recovery from addiction as Alcoholics Anonymous. <a href="https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/">Click here to find out more about Gamblers Anonymous UK</a><a href="https://www.gordonmoody.org.uk/">.</a>GamAnon: GamAnon runs local support groups for family members and friends of people suffering from gambling addiction. Click here to find out more about GamAnon.<h2>Device Blocking and Self-exclusion:</h2><a href="https://gamban.com/">Gamban:</a> Gamban is recognised as the most effective gambling-blocking software for online gambling self-exclusion, according to <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambleaware-chooses-gamban-gambling-blocking-software">GambleAware-commissioned research</a>, blocking access to over 50,000 gambling sites &amp; apps. Gamban is a digital recovery tool that is used to aid people who are vulnerable to online gambling-related harm. <a href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">GAMSTOP:</a> One of the most well-known multi-operator schemes is GAMSTOP, which is currently available as a multi-operator self-exclusion scheme to UK and NI residents. However, It only covers gambling sites based in the UK.Self-exclusion, aligned with device blocking, is a powerful tool to refrain from gambling. As long as it’s done right, and comprehensively. <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">For a complete list of self-exclusion services click here.</a><h2>Other Options:</h2>Individual Self-exclusion: All UK licensed casinos MUST offer some form of independent self-exclusion, where user can choose for how long they would like to barred from that casino, online and offline. Setting Limits: Most casinos will offer some form of setting spending limits. This is a great way to stay within your means. Both of these options require a large amount will power to remain effective. For the best protection, we recommend a multi-layered solution, such as pairing with gambling blocking software.

Gambling Addiction Myths

How Casinos Enable Gambling Addicts

How Online Casinos Keep You Coming Back Again and Again.

Though many of the following concepts have been academically researched, the aim of this piece is to provide a personal narrative for the commonly experienced tricks and traps from over 10 years of experience as a compulsive gambler.<h4>Familiarity in gambling</h4>Regression with childish cartoons and familiar characters from our youth can encourage a level of irresponsibility among players. Whether it’s Jack and the Beanstalk or the Incredible Hulk, the outcome is the same for the player – increased engagement and distraction. Homer Simpson shouting “D’oh” trivialises a losing spin, using humour to numb the pain of loss. Equally, Spiderman defeating his enemies during a bonus is immensely exciting ‘under the influence’.<h4>Availability bias</h4>“25 million people didn’t win the lottery last week” is not a story. “Jennifer from Birmingham changed her life and won £156m” is a story. Technically “it could be you” but you don’t focus on the fact that it’s almost impossibly unlikely. Even the internal narrative playing out in your head can over-emphasise the possibility of an optimum outcome, potentially resulting in play.<h4>Reframing affordability</h4>You win, you play higher stakes. Won £50 on that last £1 spin? What could you have won if you were betting £3 a spin? How about £6? You can afford it because you won the last time.<h4>Near-misses</h4>“Nearly, nearly… DAMN!” Approximately 37% to 42% ‘near misses’ are programmed into slot machines and scratch-cards for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/improving-your-odds-at-slots-is-just-a-myth">psychological effect</a>. From an industry perspective, even if manufacturers don’t add them, players tend to create them their selves, turning clearly losing situations into near-wins.<h4>Reverse withdrawals</h4>Even at the point where you have decided to stop playing and cash out, your money may still be available for immediate play and reversal. A second chance to lose everything!<h4>Illogical limit-setting</h4>It was recently revealed by a large online casino that where deposit limits are set, the average spend is much higher. This illogical situation may be due to an erroneously perceived level of control.

Tricks and Traps to Keep You Hooked

A personal narrative for the commonly experienced tricks and traps from over 10 years of experience as a compulsive gambler.

How the Coronavirus is Affecting Online Gambling

Now's an important time to protect ourselves and those at risk from falling into bad online gambling habits.

As the outbreak of the Coronavirus continues to impact daily life across the globe, we're seeing more and more gambling-related public spaces closing, such as casinos, betting shops and bookies. That mixed with self-isolation, some of us may even be more inclined to spend this free time gambling online.This is a particularly difficult time for those of us who have a gambling addiction, who may need the distraction of their day to day life just to keep themselves from gambling their money away. In lockdown or isolation, players may find themselves more vulnerable to online gambling. Given the circumstances, people are more likely to present via remote treatment resources and through digital self-help tools, rather than face-to-face channels.<h3>Coronavirus and Gambling Stats</h3>Research by Savanta reports 25% of the population have stated that their mental health has been negatively affected over lockdown.Nearly seven out of ten (68%) increased the amount of time or money they spent on at least one gambling activity (including National Lottery). To compensate, they may have reduced spending on other products and activities, such as real event betting.Since the lockdown began, 18-34-year-old men and women who have gambled recently are nearly equally likely to have taken up new gambling activities. Younger people aged 18-34 are much more likely, than average, to report increases in time or money spent on at least one gambling activity or to have taken up new activities. If you or anyone you know needs that extra bit of help to avoid online gambling we offer a free trial of Gamban you can <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/">start today</a>, as well as other online gambling self-exclusion resources <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">here</a>.<h3>What Support Is out There?</h3>For added support, you can also call the National Gambling Helpline on <a href="tel:08088020133">0808 8020 133</a>, for more information visit their website <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/">here. </a>You can also read our blog on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/practical-tips-for-problem-gamblers">Practical Tips For Problem Gamblers</a> where we run through some of the ways you can remove gambling temptations.COVID-19 hasn't slowed us down, and as such, Gamban will be running as usual. For any technical or support questions, our support team is still available to help. We implore you to take some time to consider those who may be at risk of falling into bad gambling habits and support them during these trying times, as well as looking after yourself.

Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Online Gambling

As the outbreak of the Coronavirus continues to impact daily life across the globe, we're seeing more and more gambling-related public spaces closing

It’s Important to Understand Gambling Before You Start.

Guest Blog by Derek Webb

There is so much noise out there about “responsible“ gambling. It is spread by gambling operators and those acting in conjunction with them. But there is never any rational explanation of what exactly is meant by “responsible” gambling in practical terms. If “responsible” gambling means anything it must involve understanding and controlling gambling. This is an attempt to present this type of information.Gambling can be fun but it can also be <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/casino-tricks-and-traps">dangerous</a>. It’s important to understand gambling before you start. A real understanding of gambling means having to think in theoretical terms. The easiest way to think about it is by working out how much you can afford to lose.Of course, there are winners, but very few long-term winners and only at games there is a possible chance for the player to have an edge. For example, a strong poker player playing against weaker players.<h3>Financing Gambling</h3>Gambling losses should never be from normal savings, from borrowings, or funded by the proceeds of crime. This is precisely the route to gambling ruin. Gambling funds should be from income only, but not of course income needed for normal living. It should only come from disposable income, the discretionary spending on leisure. Poorer persons with lower incomes are likely to have less income and therefore less disposable income, so should allocate less to gambling losses. For example, if only 10% of income is disposable, then the maximum gambling loss should be say 10% of that amount, being 1% of the person’s total income.A wealthier person might have 20% of income at their disposal and could feel comfortable allocating a maximum of 20% of that to gambling losses, being 4% of their total income. The average amount between 1% and 4% is 2.5% which is a good balance to work from. If a person has a 40-hour working week then one hour is 2.5% of that time. It does not make sense to lose at gambling at a higher rate per hour than your hourly earnings rate. So, someone earning £400 per week at £10 per hour for 40 hours can afford to lose £10 per week in one hour of gambling.It doesn’t really matter whether the gambling activity is weekly or monthly or annually. The principle is to just apply the maximum time and loss over a longer period. In a 28 day-month, this would be a loss of £40 over 4 hours. If it’s an annual gambling trip the allocated amount would be say £500 over 50 hours.<h3>Understanding Casino Games</h3>Looking at casino table games there are differences in the pace of the games and in the house advantages in each game. If you were playing a game where there were 100 hands per hour and the house advantage is 1% then your loss per hour is 100% of your bet amount, assuming it is the same each hand. Therefore, the bet size should be £10 per hand to result in an average one hour loss of £10.This is close to a blackjack experience if playing basic strategy with decent rules at a table with limited players. A poor strategy and / or poor rules could increase the advantage above 1%, but a full table would reduce the speed of the game.Although the expected loss is £10, the turnover in the hour is £1,000, this means the cash funds required will very probably be somewhere between these two amounts. A common measure of loss as a percentage of funds used is known as the hold percentage. With typical hold percentage being around 20% then funds required are likely to be at least £50.This £50 is of course only an average, so it makes sense to have a gambling bankroll far greater than the average amount needed in one session. Also, the bankroll needs to cover consecutive negative sessions. A useful guide would be to start with a gambling bankroll of £500. The way to build the bankroll is to set aside £10 per week for a year from disposable income before you ever start gambling. If you are unable to do that then maybe you are not ready to start gambling.The type of bets placed makes a difference. Betting on red or black at odds of 1 to 1 on roulette will not be as volatile as betting on only one number per spin at 35 to 1 odds on roulette. Whilst the £500 bankroll could easily be comfortable enough for the 1 to 1 to bets it would be unlikely to be enough for the 35 to 1 bet.In order to be able to continue gambling, you will have needed to continue to always set aside the same £10 on a weekly basis. Gambling winnings should not be spent on other items but should be added to the gambling bankroll. This is the only way to ensure that the gambling bankroll could stay intact. Remember it doesn’t matter what the actual result is in a week. It is the theoretical loss of the £10 which needs to be replaced.Comparison of actual games makes the theory easier to understand. The numbers are rounded estimates for simplicity. Playing baccarat or punto banco at 75 hands per hour and wagering £13 per hand for a turnover of £975 at a house advantage of 1% results in an expected loss of £9.75.The casino table game roulette with a single zero has a 2.7% house advantage on the number bets. Playing at a full table of around 37 hands per hour, at a stake of £10 per spin will generate a turnover of £370, resulting in an expected loss of £10 per hour.Compare this with an electronic roulette game at 180 spins per hour with the same 2.7% house advantage. Now a stake per hand of £2 per spin will generate a turnover of £360, resulting in an expected loss of £9.72 per hour.<h3>Long Term Gambling</h3>Long term gambling losses are like death by a thousand cuts. If the game speed is increased then death comes sooner. Technology in most areas helps consumers by reducing costs or improving products. For losing gamblers, technology increases the cost of gambling losses by speeding the games up. The only way to <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/improving-your-odds-at-slots-is-just-a-myth">counter</a> this is to reduce your gambling stake.Even where it is a remote gambling using alive dealer, the overall game pace will be quicker, meaning that stake size should be reduced. Keeping the same stake per spin or per hand might seem boring, but it is an important control method. Doubling the stake on one spin requires halving the stake on two spins to get back on balance.All of this information is of course theory. In any one session, you may come out well ahead or badly down. But these are not reasons or excuses to change the way you control your gambling behaviour. When gambling you are already choosing to lose cash and time. It’s not sensible to lose control as well.Students, the unemployed, persons on benefits, persons in part-time work and persons with similar limitations on disposable income generally cannot afford gambling losses and should avoid gambling. Persons under age 25 may have difficulties with gambling as our adolescent brain development is not fully mature until that age. The risk-reward analysis needed in gambling is an area that is one of the last to develop. So, it’s not a good idea to start gambling before age 25.In general summary:<ul><li>Do not spend more than the equivalent of one hour per week (on an annualised basis) at all forms of gambling</li><li>Plan to gamble at a level that your expected loss per hour will not be more than you earn in an hour as a full-time employee</li><li>Save up a dedicated gambling bankroll before you start gambling and replenish that bankroll regularly regardless of actual results</li><li>Avoid gambling at casino games that have been speeded up technologically unless you are willing to trade down your wager appropriately</li></ul> If you are unable to comply with this type of advice, then is gambling right for you? For the majority of people there really is only one “responsible” gambling message that makes any sense, which is “<a href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">DON’T GAMBLE!</a>”

Understanding and Controlling Gambling

There is so much noise out there about “responsible“ gambling. It is spread by gambling operators and those acting in conjunction with them.

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