Categories: Casino News
| Published On Dec 15, 2013 7:00 am CET  |  Updated on May 2, 2021 12:55 pm CEST | By iGaming Team

Smartphones might be clue to UK’s growing problem gambling issue

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According to GemCare figures, in 2012 alone, over 5000 people between 18 years and 35 years of age got in touch with the organization’s helpline for advice on problem gambling. According to people involved with the organization, smartphones and online gambling in general, might be directly responsible for more and younger people suffering from some form of gambling addiction.

The 18-35 year-old age group seems to be the one most affected, with over 60% of all calls received coming from them and the only age group to have risen in statistical figures over phone calls received at the helpline center. According to a helpline advisor, these figures are but a snapshot of the real issue and many young people might be trying to evade the reality of their problems by gambling online or over mobile devices.

In total, over 8,800 people called GemCare in 2012 asking for help to quit or reduce gambling habits. Although the total number of phone calls is the same as last year, the number of 18-35 year-olds to have called the institution rose by 6% or by over 5500 calls (63% of all calls received).