Responsible Gambling
Safe Betting Guidelines & Support
Your safety and well-being are our top priority
Maintaining Control When Gambling
While most people can and do bet within their means, for some, gambling can become a problem. It may help you to keep control by following these guidelines:
Set Financial Limits
Set limits for deposits, stakes, and losses before you start gambling.
Affordable Amounts Only
Only gamble what you can afford to lose without affecting your daily life.
Avoid Chasing Losses
Never try to win back losses by increasing your bets or gambling more frequently.
Track Time & Money
Keep track of the time and amount you spend gambling regularly.
Entertainment Purpose
Gambling should be entertaining and not seen as a way of making money.
Risk Management
Apply our risk management strategy and spend money ONLY set aside for entertainment.
Gambling Control Tools
Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits
Time Limits
Control how long you spend gambling each session
Take a Break
Temporarily suspend your account when needed
Self-Exclusion
Permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
Legal Gambling Age
The gambling age varies greatly across the world, and it's crucial to understand the legal requirements in your jurisdiction.
In some countries, gambling is outlawed altogether; in others, it is only legal for foreigners. The most common gambling age globally is 18 years, with more than 50% of western countries having this age limit for casinos and physical establishments.
There is a trend of lowering the gambling age to 18 from previous limits of 21 years. However, some jurisdictions still maintain higher age limits for certain types of gambling.
| Country/Region | Minimum Age | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 21 years | Varies by state; some allow 18+ for certain types |
| United Kingdom | 18 years | 16+ for National Lottery and football pools |
| Kenya | 18 years | Licensed operators only |
| Australia | 18 years | Strict regulations and consumer protection |
| Canada | 18-19 years | Varies by province |
| European Union | 18 years | Individual countries may have different rules |
Internet Gambling and the Law
Different countries have different rules for gambling, making the legality of internet gambling a complicated issue.
While most people know the legality of gambling in their home area, they often become confused about online gambling. This is especially true within the European Union, where member states' laws are not always in sync with EU regulations.
Key Legal Points:
- Many countries have restrictive laws for online gambling
- Some jurisdictions operate monopoly licensing systems
- Tax revenue maximization often drives regulations
- Laws frequently change and evolve
Risk Assessment:
- Registering from illegal areas has low prosecution risk
- Governments target operators more than players
- Individual players rarely face legal action
- Always verify local laws before participating
Do You Have a Problem with Gambling?
If you are concerned that gambling may be negatively impacting your life, consider the following questions honestly:
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent gambling from becoming a serious problem.
Behavioral Signs:
- Spending more time gambling than planned
- Lying about gambling activities
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Borrowing money to gamble
Emotional Signs:
- Anxiety when not gambling
- Depression after losses
- Irritability when unable to gamble
- Loss of interest in other activities
- Mood swings related to wins/losses
Getting Help
If you answer 'yes' to one or more questions in the self-assessment, consider whether you have a serious gambling problem.
Steps to Take:
- Acknowledge the problem - Admitting you have a problem is the first step
- Seek professional help - Contact a gambling addiction specialist
- Join support groups - Connect with others facing similar challenges
- Use blocking tools - Install software to prevent access to gambling sites
- Find healthy alternatives - Replace gambling with positive activities
Types of Help Available:
- Counseling: Individual and group therapy sessions
- Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous and similar programs
- Medication: For co-occurring mental health conditions
- Financial Counseling: Help managing debt and finances
- Family Support: Therapy for affected family members
Support Organizations Worldwide
To speak to someone about gambling problems, please contact one of the appropriate organizations listed below:
🇦🇺 Australia
Gambling Help
Phone: 1800 858 858
Website: gamblinghelponline.org.au
24/7 free counseling and support services🇺🇸 United States
Gamblers Anonymous
Phone: 1-626-960-3500
Website: gamblersanonymous.org
Support groups and meeting directories🇮🇪 Ireland
GambleAware
Phone: 1800 753 753
Website: gambleaware.ie
Free confidential helpline and support🇬🇧 United Kingdom
GamCare
Phone: 0808 8020 133
Website: gamcare.org.uk
Free gambling support and advice🇨🇦 Canada
Responsible Gambling
Phone: Various by province
Website: responsiblegambling.org
Provincial resources and support services🌍 International
Gambling Therapy
Website: gamblingtherapy.org
Live Chat: Available 24/7
Global online support communityNeed Immediate Help?
If you're in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please reach out immediately
Sure Bets App Support
+254783691695
Available during business hoursEmergency Services
Call local emergency number
For immediate crisis interventionCrisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
Available 24/7 in many countries