Is it Time to Regulate Social Gaming?

Earlier this month, a recent panel discussion was held at the ‘World Regulatory Briefing: Responsible Gambling Innovation’ held in London. The panel spoke about a segmented approach in targeting various groups, both from the gamblers side as well as from the operator’s side.

There are a certain number of risk groups, it was pointed out, especially the younger generation. They are easily targeted and are often without the needed experience or skill that may be needed with gambling. While that may not really a problem with physical casinos where gamblers actually have to come and be present while playing, and regulated online sites where there is a certain level of control of who can and cannot participate, there are several other unregulated outlets where people can easily gamble. The panel pointed out that if a person wishes to gamble, they will find a way, regardless of where they go to find it. There is even no need to actually encourage this behavior.

One of the members of the panel was the CEO of BetBuddy, a firm that is focused on data analytics the gambling industry. He pointed out that there is research that proves youngsters are likely to face periods of self isolation for extended periods of time. At times, this self exclusion can last up to 6 months or more, it is also during these episodes that they are likely to turn to online gambling. It can be an outlet while feeding into a need for excitement.

The easiest to access sites where unregulated gambling is still an issue is around eSports and skin betting. While they are, what the industry calls micro segments, they are responsible for spurring the idea of unrestricted and irresponsible gambling. It is not about the habit of gambling itself, which can be therapeutic, but the idea of social gaming that is worrisome, said the Chief Exec of the Young Gamblers Education Trust.