With social distancing guidelines in place and casinos temporarily closed, online gambling has increased significantly. As we spend more time at home, often alone with far fewer distractions, it’s especially important to recognize the warning signs of a gambling problem and take precautions against the risks of online gambling.
Take a Safer Approach to Gambling
How to take precautions from the risks
of gambling (especially online)
during COVID-19.
Stay Safe. Play Safe.
What to know if you’re gambling online
- Only gamble on websites that have pre-commitment tools in place to help you manage your play by setting time and/or money limits; the RG Check accreditation symbol is a sign that the site has features to help protect you from overly risky play
- Use the pre-commitment tools to set a limit for how much time and money you want to spend and stop when you reach your limits
- Use a free gambling site blocker app to restrict or limit your access
- Don’t gamble when you’re upset or stressed
- Avoid alcohol and/or other substances while gambling online
- Watch out for hidden fees when it comes to the costs of using your credit card to play
- You can block sites you don’t want access to or set time limits using software like Bet Blocker and GamBan
Safer gambling tips
Unlike a night in streaming movies, there’s an inherent built-in risk when it comes to gambling and odds are, over time, you will lose more often than you win. Here are some strategies you can use to play safe and have fun.
- Don’t gamble when you’re upset or stressed
- Limit your alcohol and/or cannabis intake while gambling
- Know how the games work before you wager
- Set budget and time limits – there are tools available on many slot machines, mobile and internet gambling sites to help you monitor your play
- Take frequent breaks – move around, get some fresh air, have something to eat or a coffee
- Only gamble with money you have – never borrow money or use money intended for necessities, like rent or food
- Don’t try to win back what you’ve lost
- Gambling is not a way to make money so don’t think of it as a chance to win money for a trip, to pay bills or to pay off debt
- Stick to your budget by leaving your credit and debit cards at home
- Balance gambling with other recreational activities
- If you’re no longer having fun, stop playing
- Don’t depend on “good luck” strategies – they don’t increase your chances of winning
How much do you spend gambling?
Calculate how much you’re spending on average gambling.
Get help for a gambling problem
There’s a treatment centre ready, willing and able to help you.
About the Responsible Gambling Council
The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safer gambling by influencing positive change and advancing responsible gambling standards in Canada and around the world.