The online gambling market is immense — it is projected to be worth $127.3 billion by 2027. The pandemic is not the only driver of its unrelenting growth. Virtual casinos provide 24/7 accessibility from any device, generous promotions, and an incredible variety of games from giants like NetEnt or Microgaming. Gambling is exciting, but also potentially dangerous. Follow our tips to develop a safe strategy.
Addiction is a serious problem — according to the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), around 2% of Canadians have gambling issues. The best online casino in Canada advises members against reckless betting. Still, few users can manage their spending. Here are the essentials of developing safe gambling habits.
What Is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gamblers keep their activity under control and do not let it affect other spheres of life. People become compulsive gamblers for different reasons. For some, it is the excitement of the games, for others, it is the thrill of winning or the social aspect. Your gambling is responsible when you:
- limit the amount of time and money spent in virtual casinos.
- perceive gambling as entertainment, rather than a source of profit.
- never deposit or bet more than you can afford to lose.
- understand how randomness works.
- never chase losses.
Tips For Gambling Responsibly
Responsibility begins with understanding randomness. Every outcome in games of luck depends entirely on the mathematical sequence calculated by the RNG engine. It decides what symbols land on the slot reels, and what cards are dealt in table games. Neither you nor the casino operator can have access to this system. In legit casinos, it is audited on a regular basis by reputable testing agencies, such as eCOGRA.
Very few games require special skills — for example, poker or blackjack. Slots are perfectly random. The only way to affect the odds is to bet on all pay lines. However, this may be costly depending on the game.
The system does not consider your past bets and results. There is no rhyme or reason for the results. This is why chasing losses makes zero sense.
Avoid Intoxication, Tiredness, Or The Emotional States
In all of these conditions, your decision-making abilities deteriorate. When you are excited or depressed, take a break and find a safe distraction. Resume gambling when you feel refreshed.
Focus On Entertainment Value
Gambling is highly risky and should not be regarded as a source of income. Always consider the worst-case scenario — decide how much you can afford to lose per day, week, or month, and set the corresponding limits. Do not focus on the multi-million jackpots! Calculate the most dramatic losses you would be able to accept.
To make the limits difficult to overcome, get a separate virtual deposit card from your bank, and set strict limits on online transactions. Whenever you need to top up your account, think about all the work you have done to earn this money. This will help you keep your spending in check.
