When gambling stops being a fun experience, it starts being a problem.
Sometimes you’ll be in the best position to spot if someone might be playing outside their comfort zone. Below are some of the signs to watch out for, and some steps you can take to help.
Some of the signs to look out for:
- They’re obsessed with gambling, talking about it all the time, or constantly checking the betting apps on their phone.
- They’re betting larger amounts or more frequently.
- They’ve missed work, college or uni because of gambling.
- They’re using betting as an escape and are being secretive about their betting.
- They’ve asked to be bailed out if they’ve lost a bet or multiple bets.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
If you notice some of the signs above in a friend or family member, what can you do?
1. SPEAK UP: Maybe you’re not the best person to mention it to them, but you probably do know the person best placed to say it.
2. GET THE TEAM TOGETHER: Often it helps if it’s two or three people, so that they can see it’s not just one person’s opinion. No matter who or how, ultimately the person in question will understand that you’re trying to look out for their best interests.
3. SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE: If you need to show them proof, you can start by showing them our list above. Then you can share the tools and organisations they can turn to for support – you’ll be able to find these under “Where to go”
PROTECTING MINORS
We use age verification checks on every single account, to confirm that our customers are 18 or older, and legally old enough to gamble.
If we are unable to confirm a customer’s age through electronic checks, we suspend the account and request a proof of age documentation.
However, we know kids can often use their parents phones, tablets and laptops, and that you might still be logged in to an account. As a result, gaming companies and parents must work together to protect children from underage gaming.
Tips for Protecting Minors:
- Keep your username, password and deposit details out of reach. Like, not written down on a post-it stuck to your laptop.
- Don’t save passwords or use auto-fill on your computer.
- If there are kids around, always log out of your DIBZ account.
- Install website blocking software, such as NetNanny, which allows you to control and block access to gambling websites both on PC and mobile.
- Educate your kids about the legality and potential damage of underage gambling.
- Limit the amount of time your children spend online.
- Familiarise yourself with the build in parental tools on your Mobile/Tablet/PC/TV devices
If you feel you may have an issue with underage gambling or you just want to learn more. BigDeal, run by GamCare, is an organisation aimed at young people that offers education and support about gambling.
