Deep technologies and safer gambling: A systematic review.

This study examines online gambling as an emerging non-traditional security threat in Indonesia by integrating criminological perspectives, Strain Theory and General Strain Theory, with a state-centric approach in International Relations. Through interviews, field observations, and policy document analysis, the research uncovers how economic pressure, emotional distress, and social normalization drive individuals toward digital gambling addiction. The findings reveal that personal vulnerabilities escalate into broader societal risks, challenging the capacity of state institutions to respond effectively. By mapping these micro-to-macro dynamics, the study exposes the urgent need for a more holistic national strategy, one that moves beyond enforcement and addresses the psychosocial roots of digital gambling.

The phenomenon of online gambling among adolescents has been widely examined from psychological and social perspectives, yet studies that specifically investigate the relationship between self-regulation and conformity in the context of online gambling remain limited. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between self-regulation and conformity to online gambling among adolescents in Padang Barat Subdistrict, Padang City. A quantitative approach with a survey design was employed, involving 100 male adolescents aged 12–20 years selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a four-point Likert-scale questionnaire measuring self-regulation and conformity to online gambling and were analyzed using the Spearman Rank correlation test. The results showed a strong and significant negative relationship between self-regulation and conformity to online gambling (r = −0.658; p < 0.05), indicating that the higher the level of self-regulation possessed by adolescents, the lower their tendency to conform to online gambling behaviors in their social environment. These findings provide a theoretical contribution to the literature on self-regulation and conformity in digital-based deviant behaviors, as well as practical implications for efforts to prevent online gambling among adolescents. Strengthening self-regulation through the roles of families, schools, and the social environment is deemed important as a preventive strategy to reduce online gambling behavior among adolescents.

Behavioral addictions, including problematic internet use, gaming, and gambling, are emerging as significant public health concerns in Africa, driven by rapid digitalization and socioeconomic shifts. This commentary provides a critical overview of the current state of behavioral addictions in Africa, examining prevalence, cultural influences, and systemic barriers to research and intervention. Despite growing evidence of harm, particularly among youth, the continent faces significant challenges, including limited epidemiological data, cultural biases in assessment tools, and an underdeveloped mental health infrastructure. Drawing on regional studies and global frameworks, the need for culturally sensitive research, evidence-based interventions, and robust policy frameworks is highlighted. The paradoxical coexistence of rising addiction risks and minimal regulatory oversight underscores the urgency of addressing behavioral addictions in African contexts.

The present study aimed to analyze the differences in psychopathological symptomatology between men and women who participate in online gambling, as well as to explore the relationship between this symptomatology and different risk profiles. The sample consisted of 382 participants, all university students from a province in Spain, of whom 261 were men (68.3%) and 121 were women (31.7%), with a mean age of 21.8 years (SD = 3.2; range = 18–30 years). Psychopathological symptomatology was assessed using the SAS-45, while gambling risk profiles were determined using an ad hoc questionnaire. The results of the risk profiles were formed by categorizing the SOG-RA Scale scores into non-risk gambler, at-risk gambler, and pathological gambler. The results evidenced that gender and risk profile are determining factors in the manifestation of psychopathological symptoms. It was observed that women tend to internalize their emotional problems, presenting higher levels of depression, anxiety, and interpersonal sensitivity, while men exhibit a greater propensity to externalize their symptoms, manifesting hostility, paranoid ideation, and psychoticism. Furthermore, gamblers with high-risk profiles showed higher scores in both internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Significant correlations were identified between risk profile, psychopathological symptomatology, and cognitive distortions, suggesting the need for comprehensive interventions differentiated by gender. These findings provide valuable information for the design of specific treatments that address the emotional and cognitive needs of problem gamblers, contributing to improving the effectiveness of therapeutic strategies in the context of problem gambling. University gambling is an emerging public health issue with consequences that extend beyond the individual, affecting educational, social, and economic well-being. This study addresses a critical gap by delineating gender-specific psychopathological profiles across gambling risk categories, providing actionable evidence to inform campus-based screening and targeted prevention strategies. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating gender-responsive interventions and upstream measures—such as early detection within student health services and harm-reduction messaging—to effectively mitigate gambling-related harm.

The development of digital technology has led to an increase in online gambling practices in Indonesia. This article discusses a legal analysis of online gambling crimes based on Decision Number 296/Pid.B/2024/PN Rokan Hilir, in which the defendant Marihot Sitinjak was charged and sentenced for his actions as an online lottery bookie. This research uses a normative legal method based on court decision data. The results of the study show that the panel of judges stated that the defendant was legally and convincingly proven to have violated Article 303 paragraph (1) point 1 of the Criminal Code for offering and providing opportunities for gambling as a livelihood. This decision confirms the consistency of the application of the law to online gambling practices that are rampant in society. The Decision of the Rokan Hilir District Court Number 296/Pid.B/2024/PN Rhl stated that the defendant Marihot Sitinjak was proven guilty of conducting online lottery gambling as a livelihood, with a prison sentence of 1 year and 8 months based on Article 303 paragraph (1) point 1 of the Criminal Code. This verdict was issued on August 22, 2024, by the Panel of Judges led by Ahmad Rizal, SH, MH, after examining the Public Prosecutor's alternative charges and trial evidence.

BackgroundA part of online gambling consumption takes place in offshore markets. Lack of regulatory control over offshore offers erodes many public policy and public health objectives. Channelling consumption from offshore markets to regulated markets is therefore used as justification in many gambling policy decisions. Yet, it is currently unknown how reliable existing estimates of the size of offshore markets are.MethodsThis scoping review investigates how offshore gambling markets are measured in the Nordic context and what kinds of uncertainties are involved in existing measures. We searched available estimates of offshore gambling markets from academic and grey literature in four Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden). The final sample consists of 32 reports. To supplement the results, we conducted key informant interviews and our own analysis of available data.Results24 estimates concerned the monetary value of offshore gambling as a percentage of the full market. Nine estimates concerned the population prevalence of offshore gambling. In terms of methodologies, most studies reported figures from a private gambling intelligence company H2 gambling capital, either directly or combined with other data sources. Different methodological choices yielded different estimates. An important part of reports was funded by the gambling industry. Industry reports tended to have higher overall estimates of offshore gambling due to methodological choices.ConclusionsThe measurement of offshore gambling is a politically sensitive topic wrought with uncertainties. More reliable methods and figures are needed to better inform harm prevention and consumer protection in the online environment. Inaccurate offshore measures can be used as a tool for regulatory resistance. A transparent and scientifically validated measurement tool is needed to improve the evidence-base.

The changing landscape of gambling and sports betting in the United States is causing increased concern, particularly when it comes to young people. Although gambling is federally permitted in the United States, states have differing regulations related to casinos, state lottery, online gambling, and sports betting. More than half of U.S. states have legalized mobile/online gambling or sports betting, and since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018, almost 40 states have legalized retail and/or mobile sports betting. The expansion of online and mobile gambling platforms and the fast‐paced, highly engaged design of these digital gambling products has contributed to increasing participation and greater potential for harm. The commercial gambling sector has also prioritized advertising efforts, using social media and consumer data to deliver personalized marketing to increase gambling engagement.

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology explores the relationship between online gambling behavior and disability status among college students.

Online gambling addiction is rapidly increasing worldwide and in our country, becoming a significant public health concern. Data obtained from our clinic indicate that individuals often begin gambling on legal betting sites but gradually shift to illegal platforms over time. This suggests that advertisements for legal gambling sites may play a mediating role in the progression of addiction and the transition to riskier environments. In light of current evidence, we believe that advertisements for legal gambling platforms pose a serious threat to public health and should be prohibited.

Abstract Studies suggest that algorithms can effectively be used to predict self-reported problem gambling using player tracking data. The present study analyzed a sample of real-world online gamblers ( N = 1,611) who engaged in lottery playing, casino gambling, bingo playing, and sports betting. The data also comprised each player’s actual gambling activity, as well as age and gender, in the 30 days prior to answering the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Players who engaged in at least one lottery game 30 days prior to answering the PGSI were less likely to be problem gamblers compared to players who did not play lottery games. For all other game-categories the relationship was reversed. The results also indicated that specific behavioral tracking features—such as the average number of monetary deposits per session, total amount of money bet per day, session length, and casino gambling involvement—were among the most significant predictors of self-reported problem gambling. When evaluating different machine algorithms, logistic regression and random forest emerged as the most effective in predicting self-reported problem gambling. The present study is among the few which predicts self-reported problem gambling using a sample of online lottery players, casino gamblers, bingo players and sports bettors, and provides further empirical evidence supporting the use of machine learning models to identify self-reported problem gamblers based on player tracking data. These findings can inform responsible gambling strategies by enabling operators to identify and intervene before gambling-related problems escalate.

Dark patterns are online platform design features that influence consumer behaviour to the advantage of the interface designer. In online gambling, such designs may exacerbate gambling-related harms, particularly among vulnerable consumers. This study aims to provide the first scoping review of dark patterns in online gambling. Following established scoping review frameworks, we systematically searched databases and grey literature using terms related to dark patterns and online gambling. The review protocol was preregistered. Included articles (n = 16) addressed a variety of gambling-related dark patterns: hidden gambling management tools, inducements with complex conditions, minimum balances required to withdraw funds, unnecessary frictions involved in closing an account, high defaults in stake, deposit, reality check and deposit limit settings, and urgency-based gambling prompts. To address inconsistent terminology across studies, we synthesised existing literature by mapping identified dark patterns to a transdisciplinary framework, providing greater conceptual clarity and direction for future research. The potential for harm from dark patterns is evident, yet evidence on behavioural impacts is limited, hindered by restricted access to proprietary gambling operator data. Research in this area is sparse and fragmented, often using inconsistent terminology. Future studies should empirically investigate the influence of dark patterns on consumer behaviour, especially among vulnerable populations, and evaluate safer design alternatives. We recommend mandating gambling operators to collaborate with researchers to assess platform safety, and shifting the burden of proof onto operators to demonstrate that their platforms prioritise consumer safety and foster responsible gambling environments.

This study explores the lived experiences of Millennials involved in online gambling, focusing on the psychological, emotional, and financial consequences. Using a qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 participants, all of whom regularly engage in online gambling. Thematic analysis of the data identified core motivations such as entertainment, the thrill of winning, and the pursuit of financial gain. Respondents described online gambling as an immersive experience, driven by features like graphics, sound effects, and the potential for large jackpots, which kept them engaged. However, the study also revealed significant emotional consequences, including stress, anxiety, and frustration especially when participants faced losses. Some described these emotions as chronic impacts due to ongoing gambling, while others noted situational stress triggered by specific losses. Furthermore, financial difficulties arose from impulsive betting, often exacerbating emotional strain. Social media influencers and vloggers were identified as major influencers, with many respondents citing these platforms as their gateway into online gambling. These influencers often indirectly shaped gambling behaviors by normalizing the activity through their content. Despite the negative emotional and financial effects, some respondents reported using self-regulation strategies, such as setting time limits or taking breaks. However, these efforts were often insufficient in managing the emotional distress or financial loss. Based on these findings, the study recommends public education campaigns on responsible gambling, stricter regulation of gambling-related content on social media, and the integration of self-regulation tools on gambling platforms. These interventions could help mitigate the adverse impacts of online gambling and encourage responsible gambling practices. Further studies should explore the long-term effects of online gambling and the efficacy of self-regulation tools.

In the era of digital transformation, cyberspace has become an indispensable part of Vietnam's socio-economic life. Cyberspace opens up many opportunities for socio-economic development, but at the same time leads to the increase of social evils such as online fraud, Internet addiction, cyber violence, online gambling...The article analyzes the current situation, causes and methods in education to prevent social evils in the digital environment, thereby proposing a system of solutions to improve the effectiveness of public education and propaganda, contributing to building a safe and healthy network environment for people, especially teenagers

The development of digital technology has given rise to various online platforms that offer easy access, but also open up space for the rise of online gambling practices. This phenomenon is further complicated when platform operators find themselves in an ambiguous position regarding criminal liability. In Indonesia, gambling regulations are expressly regulated in the Criminal Code and the Electronic Information and Transactions Law, but they do not yet clearly accommodate the position of platform operators as actors subject to criminal liability. This lack of regulation has implications for law enforcement and the potential for platform operators to escape criminal prosecution. This study uses a normative-comparative approach by analyzing Indonesian laws and regulations and comparing them with practices in several countries, such as Singapore and Germany. The analysis shows that these countries have explicitly regulated the responsibilities of platform operators in preventing and interrupting access to online gambling, both through mandatory content filtering and criminal sanctions for proven negligence. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, there remains a legal gap that has the potential to weaken public protection from the impacts of online gambling, particularly for vulnerable groups such as students. The implications of these findings emphasize the urgency of developing specific regulations that position platform operators as legal subjects subject to criminal liability. These regulations must not only address sanctions but also preventative mechanisms, oversight, and collaboration with law enforcement. Therefore, the existence of specific regulations is expected to fill legal gaps, strengthen law enforcement, and provide certainty for all parties in addressing the phenomenon of online gambling.

BackgroundPeople who gamble experience elevated rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Longitudinal studies have been scarce, and none has focused on those who regularly gamble in the UK.AimsTo examine the relationship between specific products and locations of gambling activity (and their combinations) and risk of subsequent suicidal thoughts.MethodWe analysed a UK longitudinal survey of 3927 adults (18 years old or over) who regularly bet on sports. Data were collected online between June and November 2020. Latent class analysis was used to identify groups of people with similar gambling profiles on the basis of 13 types of gambling activity. Weighted group characteristics are presented. Regression modelling was used to test associations between gambling groups and suicidal thoughts, adjusting for baseline characteristics.ResultsFive distinct groups were identified. One group (5.6% of the sample) reported multiple types of both in-person and online gambling. This group was the most likely to use electronic gambling machines. After adjustment for baseline suicidal thoughts, this group had significantly higher odds of subsequent suicidal thoughts (adjusted odds ratio 3.42; 95% CI: 1.18–9.89) than other groups.ConclusionsAlthough many profiles of gambling activity present suicide risk, some types present greater risk. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines recommend enquiry in primary care settings about gambling behaviours. Our findings suggest that clinicians should consider asking questions on mode (online or in-person) and product (especially electronic gambling machines) to identify those at heightened risk of suicidal ideation. Gambling should also be considered routinely in psychosocial assessments across clinical settings and incorporated into suicide prevention campaigns.

The development of information and communication technology in the digital era has significantly transformed the forms and modus operandi of criminal acts, including the emergence of online gambling conducted through websites and social media platforms. This phenomenon raises legal challenges because the previous Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) regulated gambling only in its conventional form and was therefore unable to fully accommodate the characteristics of cyber-based gambling activities. In response, the government enacted the new Criminal Code (Law No. 1 of 2023), which will take full effect in 2026 and introduces important reforms through Articles 426 and 427. These provisions explicitly prohibit and criminalize any person who offers, facilitates, or participates in gambling enterprises, including those using electronic means. However, the application of these provisions to individuals who merely disseminate online gambling links remains debatable, particularly concerning their position within the structure of criminal liability. This study aims to examine the criminal liability of individuals who disseminate online gambling links via social media, as reflected in the District Court of Payakumbuh Decision No. 123/Pid.Sus/2023. The research relies on secondary data obtained from literature, legislation, legal documents, academic books, and electronic sources. This study employs a normative juridical approach, analyzed descriptively, logically, and systematically using a deductive method. The findings indicate that disseminating online gambling links is considered an act of providing an opportunity to gamble, thereby rendering the perpetrator criminally liable even though they are not directly involved in gambling activities. However, the imposition of equal criminal sanctions on both link promoters and principal actors does not fully reflect the principle of justice, as their roles and degrees of culpability differ substantially. This study emphasizes the importance of distinguishing the roles of actors within online gambling activities to ensure proportional sentencing and contributes to the scholarly development of applying the new Criminal Code to technology-based crimes.

This research examines the juridical aspects of utilizing third-party personal bank accounts in online gambling crimes, focusing on the study of Decision Number 138/Pid.Sus/2024/PN Batam. The study is prompted by the increasing prevalence of online gambling practices that exploit third-party accounts to disguise financial transaction flows. The legal problem investigates the application of criminal liability under the Personal Data Protection Law and evaluates the judge's legal considerations through the lens of John Rawls' theory of justice. This study employs a normative juridical method with a case study approach, drawing from primary legal materials such as statutory regulations and court decisions, as well as secondary legal materials including legal doctrines and literature. Data analysis is conducted descriptively by applying Gustav Radbruch's theory of legal certainty to assess the consistency of legal norm application, and John Rawls' theory of justice to evaluate substantive justice for the aggrieved parties. The results indicate that the unauthorized use of bank accounts fulfills the elements of unlawful personal data processing, specifically regarding personal financial data as regulated under the Personal Data Protection Law. However, the court only applied the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law and the Money Laundering (TPPU) Law without integrating the Personal Data Protection Law, leading to normative inconsistencies and a failure to provide optimal protection for personal data subjects.

The global rise in internet usage has significantly altered how people spend their leisure time, including gambling—one of the oldest and most hazardous forms of entertainment. This transformation has given rise to online gambling, a modern counterpart to traditional land-based gambling. This study aimed to (a) review existing findings on personality traits associated with online gambling and (b) compare the personality profiles of online gamblers to those of land-based gamblers. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ULAKBIM TR Index, Turkish Psychiatry Index, Asos Index, and SOBIAD Index. Of the studies screened, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Findings highlighted that online gamblers are predominantly male, with higher levels of education and income compared to land-based gamblers. Key personality traits associated with online gambling addiction include high levels of sensation seeking, novelty seeking, neuroticism, and impulsivity, alongside low levels of self-directedness, cooperativeness, and extraversion. While these traits are also linked to land-based gambling, online gamblers were found to score lower in extraversion and honesty-humility. Additionally, some studies noted that online gamblers tend to accumulate greater gambling debts and experience higher gambling-related harms. Clinical studies revealed that individuals who engaged in both types of gambling—online and land-based—were most closely associated with pathological gambling behaviors. These findings underscore the role of specific personality traits and the unique risks posed by online gambling in the development of gambling addiction.

Japan's addiction landscape appears paradoxical. The lifetime use of illicit drugs is among the lowest in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries, but harm from alcohol, tobacco, and gambling ranks among the world's highest. Historically, methamphetamine accounted for the majority of drug-related offenses, but the number of people who were apprehended for cannabis offenses in 2023 exceeded the number who were apprehended for stimulants for the first time since 1958. Nevertheless, the lifetime prevalence of illicit drug use among adults remains under ~3%. In contrast, heavy drinking among working-age men, decades of tobacco consumption, and rapid digitalization that has more recently led to a surge in online gambling and gaming disorder have imposed a substantial disease burden. The present review discusses Japan's epidemiology, social impact, policy changes, prevention, and treatment infrastructure of drug-related problems and the latest trends in addiction science and proposes ways to link policy and research. Japan's experience, balancing strict enforcement with health-centered care, may offer lessons for regions that have similar social contexts.