Online Gambling is betting or playing games of chance for money, through a remote device (such as a computer, tablet, smartphone or game console). It’s becoming increasingly popular and it’s possible to access it from almost anywhere in the world. It is also easy to conceal activity as people don’t need to leave the comfort of their own homes. This is particularly concerning for young people who are often introduced to gambling behaviours through features in video games, such as loot boxes and skin betting.

It is a significant problem in many parts of the world, with evidence for online gambling addiction increasing globally. Factors driving this include the commercialization of gambling products, sponsorship and advertising, and social pressure to gamble. It is also often facilitated by the accessibility of these products, which are disproportionately located in areas of disadvantage.

People with an addiction to gambling are unable to control their gambling, and they keep going in the face of financial losses and other harms. They may also require higher stakes to experience the initial thrill, a process called escalation. This can result in major financial losses and psychological distress.

Anxiety symptoms are common in people with gambling addictions and can be exacerbated by repeated attempts to reduce or stop gambling. This can cause stress and depression and lead to relationship breakdown, family violence and poor mental health. Prevention is important, and centralized account registration systems that force people to set binding limits on time and money spent are the most effective.