This risk warning is provided to explain the potential risks associated with online gambling and to support informed decision-making. Gambling should be considered entertainment, not a way to make money. Reading and understanding these risks helps reduce harm and encourages safer behaviour when using the platform.
Financial risks
1. Risk of loss
The most direct risk in gambling is financial loss. Every bet involves uncertainty, and winnings are never guaranteed.
Unpredictable outcomes: The outcomes of slot machines, table games and sports betting are inherently uncertain. Results are dictated by chance, and no strategy can guarantee a profit. Increasing stakes to recover losses can quickly worsen the harm and lead to uncontrolled spending.
2. Risk of addiction
Gambling addiction — also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder — is a serious risk. It can develop when gambling becomes difficult to control and starts to harm finances, relationships or daily life.
Common warning signs include:
- Increasing stake amounts: Repeatedly increasing stakes to recover losses or chase a "big win".
- Gambling beyond your means: Using savings, borrowing money or cutting back on essential expenses to fund gambling.
- Loss of control: Feeling unable to stop despite recognising the negative consequences.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritising gambling over work, family obligations and personal wellbeing.
If you suspect an addiction, it is advisable to seek professional help as early as possible. Responsible gambling tools, including self-exclusion, can help reduce immediate risk. Support organisations specialising in gambling-related harm can also provide confidential assistance.
3. Risk of financial difficulties
Gambling beyond your personal limits can lead to long-term financial strain. Losses can contribute to debt, an inability to pay essential bills and severe instability.
Possible consequences may include:
- Debt accumulation: Borrowing money or using credit cards to gamble can lead to a rapid increase in debt, with interest and fees making the situation worse.
- Bankruptcy: In severe cases, persistent and uncontrolled gambling can contribute to bankruptcy, a deterioration in creditworthiness, and long-term financial disruption.
- Strain on relationships: Financial stress can put relationships with partners, friends, and family under severe pressure, often leading to conflict, mistrust, or separation.
Emotional and psychological risks
Gambling can affect emotional health, especially when gambling becomes intense or repetitive. The cycle of wins and losses can cause strong emotional swings.
Typical effects include:
- Excitement and euphoria: Winning can create a temporary "high", increasing the urge to keep playing and take greater risks.
- Frustration and anger: Losses can trigger irritation, disappointment, and impulsive behaviour, including chasing losses.
- Anxiety and depression: Ongoing stress related to losses or gambling pressure can contribute to anxiety, low mood, guilt, shame, and feelings of hopelessness.
If gambling starts to affect mental well-being, taking a step back, setting strict limits, or using self-exclusion can be effective. Seeking support from trusted professionals or specialised organisations can also help prevent further harm.