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Today's gambling landscape is complex and evolving, especially in the digital world where the line between gaming and gambling isn't always clear. While most gambling activities are legally restricted to adults, understanding how young people might come into contact with gambling helps us better protect them from potential harms.

Arcade games

Arcade games, while seeming harmless, can introduce gambling concepts through games of chance and prize machines. These experiences might seem like innocent fun but can normalise gambling behaviors from an early age.

The national lottery

The national lottery and scratch cards remain common entry points to gambling, often seen as less harmful due to their widespread availability and social acceptance. Young people might see family members playing these games or even be given scratch cards as gifts, despite age restrictions.

Gaming machines

Gaming machines and online gambling have evolved significantly. While traditional slot machines are restricted to adult venues, similar mechanics now appear in mobile and console games that young people can easily access.

Betting

Betting has become increasingly visible to young people, particularly through advertising during sports events and social media. From casual bets on match outcomes to complex in-game wagers.

Esports

The rise of esports has created new gambling opportunities, with young people able to bet on competitive gaming events just as they would traditional sports. This creates particular risks as it combines gaming culture with gambling behaviors.

Private betting

Private betting among friends has also evolved in the digital age. What once might have been small wagers on playground games can now involve complex betting pools organised through social media or messaging apps.

Online games

Online games increasingly include elements that mirror traditional gambling, from loot boxes to virtual currency systems. While not technically gambling in legal terms, these features can trigger similar psychological responses and behaviors to gambling and can involve spending virtual currency which has been purchased with real money.

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