For some, the mere thrill of online gambling can be almost as exciting as winning a jackpot. Unfortunately for others, it can be a significant problem that results in addiction. In efforts to reduce this problem, many online casino operators are stepping up to help players implement gambling limits and protect themselves.
How Gambling Limits Work
A common trend in the industry is seeing a number of casinos allowing their players to set limits on a daily or weekly basis. Once these limits have been set, you are not permitted to place any bets that exceed the threshold. If this feature is available at an online casino you wish to play at, you may want to consider putting it to use. Regardless if you have a gambling problem or not, setting limits can spare you a lot of grief when tempted by those spur of the moment wagers.
Online casino operators have been forced to adopt more responsible practice thanks to new internet gambling protocols. These policies state that players have the option to contact the casino support staff and request that gambling limits be imposed on their wagers. If the player has already designated their own limits, they can submit them or ask for assistance. There are some casinos that even have internal professionals dedicated to ensuring responsible gaming, while others turn to third-part services from responsible gambling bodies. Although these practices have not be completely adopted by the internet gambling industry, several of the more reputable online casinos have realized that when it comes to addiction, prevention is always a better weapon than the cure.
Suspension Periods
Online casino operators generally offer players a several options under the responsible gambling policy. One is known as self-exclusion, which allows the players to opt for a 7-day period where they do not partake in any gambling. During this period, the player’s casino account is locked, thus preventing access from any available games. Some casinos also freeze email communications so the player does not receive information regarding promotional offers. Once the period has concluded, the player is then allowed access to their account and can resume playing at the casino. If these efforts do not aid the player, they can then choose a six-month suspension period to get things to get together and learn to establish gambling limits for themselves. Anyone who does not benefit from the second option is strongly encouraged to seek professional help to kick their gambling addiction.
Knowing Your Limits
The enforcement of online gambling limits certainly helps, but cannot be the sole solution to addiction. There will be some players who refuse to implement them for the simple belief that no problem exists. Some might feel uncomfortable when asking the casino to lend assistance and then disappointed at the restrictions that have been imposed. Then you have your players that will end up quickly lifting their limitations because they always feel the need to exceed them. These type of players require stronger actions. Respectable online casino operators are doing their part to prevent addiction. What players must realize is that while these features are becoming increasingly available, it is their responsibility to set limits within themselves.