“Gamble responsibly” is the alert that players can see on almost every website with gambling-related content. However, does this messaging actually work? Of course, users who first enter the online casino world are afraid of making an extra spin, fearing that the operator will deceive them and take all their funds. When a person gets used to the fact that many platforms are fair and withdrawing funds is possible, they are likely to invest higher sums and continue to gamble despite losses at some point. While all online casinos and bookmakers are obliged to promote safer habits, statistics say that it isn’t always efficient. But if responsible gambling alerts don’t work, how can iGaming sites encourage players to stay in control, while maintaining high user engagement?
The Intent vs the Impact
The essence of responsible gaming alerts is to inform users about the risks they accept when joining online casinos or bookmaker sites, and recommend that they set their limits and stop on time. As authorities mention increased gambling addiction rates, especially among the younger generation, operators must encourage self-control. In addition, people who already struggle with the first signs of compulsive behaviors should be motivated to seek assistance to avoid worsening their condition. Although the system seems efficient, in practice, these attempts fail. For many, responsible gambling messages have already become a background noise that they typically ignore. Why does it happen, and are there any ways to improve the overall landscape?
Vague Statements Don’t Motivate
“Know your limits,” “stay in control,” “bet with your head, not with heart” are the common claims gamblers can see on most bookmakers and casino sites. But for many, these are just meaningless words. Users don’t understand what their limits are and how to calculate the maximum amount of funds to avoid financial problems. Users are confused about the lack of information on how to figure out that they are gambling irresponsibly or need help from third-party support organizations. A lack of clear definitions and practical guidance makes players think that everything is fine, and gambling addiction is a problem for other people, not them. This approach leads to a growing number of compulsive users who become trapped in a cycle of endless bets.
On contrary to this strategy, operators should act more aggressively. The recommendation to set a weekly limit before making the first deposit is more efficient. Many online casinos now incorporate AI technologies that can assist customers in calculating the maximum amount of money they can invest in this high-risk entertainment without going broke. Concrete, behavior-based notifications are more informative and suggest that users take specific actions to avoid problems in the future. For instance, “when gambling stops being fun, it’s better to stop” can make players reconsider their habits and seek help, if necessary.
Timing and Placement Are Wrong
Where are responsible gambling messages typically located? Right, users can usually see them at the bottom of the website, after they have already looked through the casino’s portfolio, variety of betting markets, and generous promotions. In this case, adrenaline seekers are already inspired by the opportunity to test the service and claim their rewards, and safer gaming practices go to the background. This is the classic case of poor message placement that doesn’t meet the initial goals. On the other hand, responsible gambling alerts are a good solution in these situations:
- When a player is placing a high-stakes bet
- After multiple unsuccessful wagers or game rounds
- In the banking section, where users select deposit amounts
- During long gambling sessions (an hour or more)
Responsible operators, such as OneXBet, consider adding push notifications when they notice unfamiliar activities from the user’s account. For instance, sending a pop-up with text like “you’ve been playing for 80 minutes already, don’t you think it’s time to take a break” can work efficiently and encourage users to quit the website for a chosen period. These alerts are also efficient in the depositing section, as overspending is the most common reason for gambling-related problems. AI mechanisms can analyse typical replenishment amounts and use safer gaming messaging when the top-up sum exceeds standard figures.
It’s Not Speaking to the Right People
As a rule, people suffering from the first symptoms of compulsive disorders are in denial. They don’t admit they have problems and continue gambling despite losses or unusual behaviors. So, who are the online gaming companies actually talking to? General warnings can be efficient for occasional players who visit online casinos and sportsbooks from time to time. On the contrary, operators should focus on segmentation, just as they do when providing customers with personalized promotions.
Identifying members who are at higher risk of gambling addiction can help them create more complex strategies for further assistance and treatment. Many reputable casinos and bookmakers are backed by support organizations and helplines, which they can use to their advantage. Behavioral data is critical for offering timely intervention and selecting the plan for each individual. This approach requires time and resources, but it can ultimately foster a healthier gambling community worldwide.