Online Gambling is a digital activity where real money bets are placed on games of chance via the Internet or mobile devices. It is a great way for players to access and enjoy their favourite games without the need to travel to a land-based casino. The convenience of online gambling has allowed many people to keep their favourite pastime within easy reach, and the ability to play from any location with an Internet connection is a huge benefit for some.

While there are many benefits of online gambling, there are also some risks that need to be taken into account. These include financial problems, emotional stress, social isolation and decline in work or academic performance. In addition, some individuals may resort to illegal activities (like theft or fraud) to fund their gambling habits, which can have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.

Lastly, there is nothing that can replicate the real-world experience of visiting a casino. The energetic ambiance, people and the general interaction with the space can’t be recreated in an online environment and some players will always prefer the first-hand thrill of being in a bricks and mortar casino. In addition, it is often necessary to wait for your winnings to be withdrawn from an online casino, which can take away some of the instant gratification that comes with playing in person.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of gambling problems. The first step is to recognise that there is a problem. You can do this by taking GamCare’s free, self-assessment tool which will ask you a series of questions about your gambling behaviour and give you a personalised report.