Safer gambling
If betting is no longer fun, stop and talk to someone
We report on gambling every day. That is not the same as recommending it. Most of what is written here concerns businesses that make money when players lose, and with crypto casinos the losses can come quickly and are hard to undo.
Free help, in confidence
- Gambling Therapy: online support in many languages, anywhere in the world.
- BeGambleAware (UK): advice and the National Gambling Helpline, 0808 8020 133.
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.
- Gamblers Anonymous: meetings in person and online.
- Gamban and similar tools block gambling sites and apps on your devices.
Signs worth taking seriously
- Betting more to win back what you lost.
- Using money that was meant for rent, bills or other people.
- Keeping the amount you gamble from those close to you.
- Being restless or short-tempered when you try to cut down.
- Moving money into crypto mainly so that you can keep playing.
Staying in control
- Decide on a money limit and a time limit before you begin, and set them in the account if the operator allows it.
- Count what you spend as the price of entertainment. It is not income and not an investment.
- Do not play when you are upset, when you have been drinking, or to get even.
- Use self-exclusion. Licensed operators have to offer it, and many countries run a national scheme.
A note on crypto casinos
Many crypto casinos are licensed offshore, or not at all, and are not allowed to take players from a long list of countries. A site that lets you register is not proof that playing there is legal for you. If something goes wrong with an unlicensed operator there may be nobody to complain to, and a crypto payment cannot be reversed.
Check your own country's rules, and the legal age, before you play anywhere.