Online Gambling is gambling you do on your phone or computer, using apps and websites to bet on sports and events, play casino games and pokies, or even take a virtual magic carpet ride. It can be done at any time of the day or night, and is much quicker than going to a real casino.
There are plenty of benefits to Online Gambling, but it can also be very addictive. It can cause financial problems, including large debts and a loss of income. It can also lead to depression, anxiety and stress, as well as a decline in work or school performance. In addition, it can lead to social isolation as you spend less time with friends and family and more time gambling.
The most popular method of accessing Online Gambling is through a smartphone, although desktop and laptop computers remain important routes too. It is also possible to gamble on a tablet, and smart TVs have become a niche way of accessing Online Gambling, with usage doubling between 2019 and 2020 among those aged 18-34.
Most online gambling is done at home, but one in five people say they have gambled on their mobile device while at work or commuting. This suggests that the majority of online gamblers are still doing it for fun, rather than to make money. However, it is worth remembering that online casinos are real businesses that need big profits to keep their staff paid and to grow.