Though sports betting has become a hugely popular pastime all over the world, it isn’t exactly a preferred and widely accepted leisure activity online. We know the risks and the potential dangers of betting, and statistics and players’ anecdotes don’t lie. Still it is possible to bet in a safe and fun way at one of the reliable bookmakers recommended by Match.Center CZ, and we recommend enjoying it responsibly.
Read on and discover the most common practices of responsible sports betting in the digital world.
But First, a Look at ‘Problem Gambling’
Problem gambling is a serious social issue. For instance, the United Kingdom’s Gambling Commission (UKGC) issues reminders and raises awareness regularly. According to the Commission, 44 percent of all adults aged 16 and over have engaged in at least one form of gambling in the year to December 2022. Based on this, the problem gambling rate was evaluated as 0.2%.
The figure may seem low, but for some in the betting industry, it can be a cause for concern. We understand the concern, too, since problem gambling disrupts, compromises, and potentially damages your recreational, personal, and family pursuits. Organisations like the UKGC and authorities in other countries survey, study, and analyse it through several screening tools, including the Problem Gambling Severity Index.
So here are a few tips and practices to stay safe and bet responsibly.
Responsible Betting Practice: Few Simple Tips
Playing and betting responsibly is a set of initiatives not just for average bettors, but for operators as well. Responsible Gambling initiatives are about prevention, helping bettors avoid the harm. For operators, it’s a set of tools and programmes to stop the development of problematic gambling behaviours. And for a bettor like you, it’s all about taking responsible steps to protect your welfare.
In this brief guide, we’ll be covering the best tips to follow as a bettor:
- Set a budget, and stick to it. Always start by setting up your budget or bankroll and stay committed. If you’re having difficulties controlling your spending, you may want to use the operator’s tools, such as Deposit Limit or Loss Limit.
- Never chase losses. Once you have used up your bankroll, walk away. Don’t chase your losses since the odds are stacked against players like you. Remember, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be the winner next time.
- Treat betting as an expense. Betting is like buying a ticket to watch a show- you’re paying a price for the entertainment, and you’re not on it to win and take home the jackpot.
- Research and always read reviews. Research and practising due diligence is a great skill to use online. Since betting is popular, you’ll find dozens of sites that compete for your attention, including the unlicensed and fraudulent ones. Look for licensed and regulated betting sites with a solid, Responsible Gambling program.
- Use the online tools offered by gambling operators. As mentioned, Responsible Gambling is a set of initiatives concerning the operators. Get protection by maximising Responsible Gambling tools such as Session Limits, Loss Limits, and Self Exclusion. With Self Exclusion, you can voluntarily exclude yourself from their services and marketing for a few days, months, or even a year.
- Take a break and try other online recreational activities. Betting can be addictive, and you’ll need to manage it so that it will not control your life. So, we always recommend taking a break and trying other recreational activities online. Keep it balanced; you can play games online, socialise, build your professional network, or even start an online business!
- Get help. If you think your betting activities are no longer for leisure and they’re starting to disrupt your other pursuits, then it’s time to take notice. Don’t be ashamed to ask and look for help because it’s always available and 100% confidential.
With the increasing popularity of smartphones and better technology, experts expect continuous growth in the betting industry. This convenience and perks from bonuses, promos, and other marketing campaigns add to its appeal. But we always encourage betting within limits and in a responsible manner. Please do it cautiously, and don’t hesitate to follow the tips and suggestions on this page.
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