The report written in collaboration with Bournemouth University by GambleAware studied the different risks associated with various gambling products.
The study found that users of physical electronic gaming machines (such as those in betting shops and casinos) are over ten times more likely to suffer gambling-related harm than the average level. Online casino games, offering quick rewards and fast-paced gameplay, increase the likelihood of harm by four times.
Loot boxes, a feature in many video games, are considered a particularly concerning issue due to their ease of access and appeal to a young audience. The report found that 50% of loot box users are at some level of risk, with many exhibiting behaviors consistent with problem gambling.
The charity calls for stricter restrictions on loot boxes, including limiting access to individuals over the age of 18.
It is worth noting: GambleAware recommends that the national lottery improve its player protection measures and provide clearer support service links for those at risk.
The study also highlighted the widespread impact of the national lottery, noting that 600,000 people with gambling problems participated in the lottery, and 500,000 used scratch cards.
The study further emphasized that the number of gambling activities a person engages in significantly increases their risk of harm. Those who participate in multiple forms of gambling are more likely to encounter serious problems, prompting GambleAware to suggest the creation of a shared database for operators to identify individuals at risk.
This finding comes at a time when the UK is implementing a mandatory gambling tax, expected to raise £100 million ($123 million) annually for harm prevention.
However, GambleAware CEO Zoë Osmond expressed concerns that the current measures in the "Gambling White Paper" (such as setting different online slot machine betting limits based on age) are insufficient to protect consumers.
