Social Evil

Each of the aforementioned anti-online gambling governments view the activity as a social evil or propose it will slowly become one if not regulated properly by only the government. To counter these ideas, the EGBA has developed a “Myth-busting” webpage with regards to debunking the most common myths associated with online gambling.

Problem Gambling

One of the most important accusations against the industry is that it nurtures problem gambling by making it easier for players to wager more than they can afford. The EGBA deferred to several recent studies that proved problem gaming has remained stable at around one percent over the past decade, even with the development of online gambling. Furthermore, licensed operators promote safe and responsible gaming.

There are even various tools that customers can access such as setting deposit limits, creating cool off periods, activating self-exclusion options and engaging self check tests. Additionally, the most reputable online operators partner with problem gambling groups so anyone who needs help can access the agencies immediately.

Responsibility

Another myth disseminated by several European governments is that state or federally-run online gambling monopolies are more responsible than privately-licensed operators and therefore better protect online players. In 2008, safe and fair play leader, eCOGRA released a study indicated that licensed private casino operators do more to implement responsible and fair gambling standards than governments.

Lower Payback Ratio

Another contention in favor of state monopolies is the lower payback ratio offered which deters excessive gambling. This argument was countered by stating that when governments limit private online casino operators to provide more competitive products and services, they are ensuring their operators remain profitable-only.

Money Laundering

The final point consistently argued is the concern of money laundering. Many believe online gambling is an easy target for terrorists, crime families and others who are transferring unaccounted funds for despicable actions. This was the primary rationale for the passage of the UIGEA in the United States. However, money trails in online gambling are transparent and traceable due to the highly regulated nature of the business.

EGBA has clearly busted many of these common misconceptions. When online gambling was first implemented, these ideas may have been accurate; however, since regulation, fair and safe play certificates and rigid standards have been implemented the industry is on the straight and narrow.

If caught at an early stage, problem gambling can be controlled and eliminated. One resource to catch this addiction is the Problem Gambling Test. Regular bettors should take this test frequently. An effective frequency is to take the test quarterly. The total amount of time to take the test is only ten minutes. The test follows a set of question in a “yes” or “no” format. The player must answer the questions honestly for an accurate reading.

Most online gaming sites are aware of their corporate responsibility to prevent or minimize gambling addiction. They usually have a section devoted to the addiction accompanied by the Problem Gambling Test. Tests are fairly similar across all casinos. Players should take the initiative to browse through many tests and find the one that is most comprehensive.

Problem gambling covers many different aspects of gaming. When players engage in the test, they should find the reasoning behind each question to answer truthfully. Responsible gaming mandates players to gamble in a time that does not affect their work schedule. Any type of gambling that disrupts normal daily activities is a problem.

The other aspect of these tests uncovers:

• The reason for gambling
• Lying about gambling
• Disruption of family and social relationships
• The reaction to losing money

Although the test does not provide any type of assessment, it is the player’s responsibility to determine if he is a problem gambler and needs treatment. Regular players should make note of their results and compare them to future tests. This will greatly assist with correct assessment. If players answer yes to any of the questions, they should create an outline of steps on how to improve that specific area.

Problem gambling can come out of nowhere. What you may consider to be simple betting every night could actually be a path to addiction. These tools are offered online to help you gamble in a responsible manner.

New Marketing Focus

The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling states that casino marketing agendas should cater to those that do not gamble. This includes customers that do not have pathological gambling problems and choose not to gamble as well as those that are afflicted with gambling addiction.

Since many casinos have developed into more than just betting by offering numerous entertainment options, there are many chances to lure non-gambling customers to the area. Casinos are encouraged to learn the culture of non-gamblers and find and develop programs that will appeal to them.

The Statistics

A recent study found that 75 percent of customers eat at casino establishments, 60 percent attend the shows, 48 percent attend bars, 41 percent shop and 35 percent utilize the property recreational facilities like the pool, bowling and movie theaters.

Promotional Items

One promotional item that casinos continually distribute are loyalty cards and gambling coupons. Giving these to recovering gamblers is detrimental to their progress which, over the long term, will result in lost money by the casino.

Solutions

One alternative to this is each casino should distribute colored bracelets to indicate a non-gambler. That way they don’t have the annoyance of being flooded with giveaways. Another method is to eliminate having employees immediately saying, “good luck” to all guests. Instead, greet them with a simple, “how are you doing today” or as they’re exiting, “have a nice day.” This will go much further with those that are not gamblers.

Additionally, The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling recommends giving the customer a choice to which type of giveaway they’d like to receive. That way, everyone collects something. Expand loyalty cards to make them useable for amenities on the property.

Although most casinos display the national gambling problem hotline around their property, sometimes this isn’t enough. Small modifications to the way they conduct business can go a long way.

Las Vegas gaming companies now have a social and ethical responsibility to their community and customers to downplay gambling and attract patrons in other ways. Since Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world, they should have no problem finding news methods of attracting customers.