Fun apps a gambling risk for kids

Home » Fun apps a gambling risk for kids

Exposure to gaming apps and websites by children can give them an unrealistic view of real-life gambling, say researchers in Australia.


The University of Sydney’s Professor Sally Gainsbury made the assertion during an Australian parliamentary inquiry that is establishing the need for reform in the gambling sector.

Professor Gainsbury said that the apps and websites gave children “an irrational belief” in their future success as a serious gambler. This was because the gambling themed apps had inflated payout rates that could encourage users to over-estimate their chances of winning in real life.

The inquiry also heard, however, that top sports organisations believed that gambling advertising helps to fund sport. The social gaming industry also told the inquiry that only 1.6 per cent of people pay for in-app purchases on mobile games.

More about:  Sun casinos well on way to recovery

The conclusions of the inquiry will help the Australian government decide whether to broaden rules to take in apps and games with gambling features, even when youngsters are not playing with real money.

A study of 521 Australian adults found that 19.4 per cent of users of games with gambling themes said that they had gambled for real money as a result.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Gambling News from NewsCasinoNew.com is made for the most passionate fans of online casinos and internet gambling. We cover everything: from popular gambling world events and trends to new casino slot game releases and reviews, you will find the latest news stories.