Gambling should be entertainment – never a way to make money or to escape problems. Online casinos are for adults aged 18 and over (or older where the law requires it).
Keep it fun
- Set a budget you can afford to lose before you start, and stick to it.
- Decide how long you will play and take regular breaks.
- Never chase losses or borrow money to gamble.
- Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed or under the influence of alcohol.
- Keep gambling in balance with other activities.
Tools licensed casinos offer
- Deposit, loss and wager limits – daily, weekly or monthly.
- Reality checks – reminders of how long you have been playing.
- Time-outs – a short break from 24 hours to several weeks.
- Self-exclusion – closing your account for six months or longer.
Warning signs
- Spending more money or time than you planned.
- Feeling anxious, irritable or guilty about gambling.
- Hiding gambling from family or friends.
- Gambling to win back losses or to solve money problems.
Where to get help
Free, confidential support is available. These organisations can help you or someone close to you:
- BeGambleAware – information and support (UK).
- GamCare – support and counselling (UK).
- GAMSTOP – free self-exclusion from UK-licensed gambling sites.
- Gamblers Anonymous – international support groups.
- National Council on Problem Gambling – help and resources (USA).
Protecting minors
Keep your login details private, do not leave accounts open on shared devices, and use parental control software to block gambling sites for children.