Most people play without issue, but there are too many cases of addiction, catastrophic financial loss and, in some tragic cases, suicide. Technology has transformed the industry and people can bet 24 hours a day through ‘mobile virtual casinos’ in their pockets. Millions of people enjoy gambling every year - whether that be putting money on a horse, playing at a casino, or a bet on the football - and much of this is now done through smartphones. Problem gambling affects an estimated 300,000 people and can lead to people losing life-changing sums of money.Move will see Gambling Commission get tougher powers and follows recent high-profile fines against gambling operators for failing to protect people at risk.
Plans include a mandatory levy on betting firms to pay for treatment of addiction, new player protection checks and stake limits for online slots.
