Online Gambling | A Harmless Leisure Activity or a Road to Addiction?

Online gambling is the fastest-growing addiction not only in America, but worldwide. Studies indicate that betting online is more addictive than visiting a physical casino, largely because it removes many of the natural limits that help people stop. When gambling is available 24 hours a day on a phone or computer, there’s no need to travel anywhere, no closing time, and no clear moment to “walk away.”

Another key factor is how online platforms change the way people think about money. Instead of handing over cash, online users gamble with digital funds, making losses feel less real. At the same time, the privacy of online gambling reduces social pressure or embarrassment, making it easier for individuals to continue risky behaviors without others noticing.

Online gambling platforms use advanced technology to keep users engaged. These platforms track player behavior, collecting and sharing data with other platforms. Algorithms are then used to personalize experiences, offering targeted promotions, bonuses, and reminders­—making it difficult for users to resist, even after losing money.

Young people are especially vulnerable. With the rapid rise of online gambling, adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 are among the most affected groups. Globally, about 18% of adolescents, nearly 160 million individuals, have gambled in the past year, and more than a quarter of them are at risk of developing a gambling addiction.

Research shows that one person’s gambling addiction can impact six to eight others, including family members, friends, coworkers, and employers. Financial stress, emotional strain, and relationship challenges are turning what may seem a personal issue into a public health concern.

Do you or someone you know need help?

Pennsylvania & National Resources

Gambler’s Anonymous of PA Call: 1-800-GAMBLER, Primary Phone #: 412-281-7484; National Hotline: 855-222-5542

National Council on Problem Gambling www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment
Call: 1-800-522-4700

Pennsylvania Gambling Helpline for 24/7 free confidential support, crisis management, treatment referrals, self exclusion support, by Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA Call: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

SMART Recovery
Offers self-help meetings for overcoming addictive behaviors.
https://smartrecovery.org/gambling-addiction

Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP)
Enables individuals to ban themselves from Pennsylvania casinos.
Call: 717-346-8300
Email: problemgambling@pa.gov

Lifesteps Family Care Mobile Resource Program is funded in part by the Bork Family Fund, Benjamin Bosler Fund, and Future of Community Foundation for the Alleghenies.