Mechanisms of protection against ludomania in licensed casinos

Licensed online casinos are required to implement a set of measures to prevent and reduce the risk of gambling addiction (ludomania). These mechanisms are enshrined in the rules of regulators and are a prerequisite for maintaining a license. They are aimed at ensuring that players can control their behavior, and operators can timely identify and prevent the development of addiction.

1. Self-limiting tools

1. Limits on deposits - the player can set the maximum amount of replenishment per day, week or month.
2. Betting limits - limit the amount that can be bet for a certain period.
3. Game Time Limits - Automatically end a session after a specified amount of time.
4. Reminders about the duration of the session - notifications of how much time and money has been spent.

2. Self-Exclusion

The ability to block access to the account for a certain period (from 24 hours to several years) or forever.
Automatic cancellation of all active bonuses and the inability to register a new account.
In some countries, there is a centralized base of self-excluded players (for example, GAMSTOP in the UK).

3. Monitor and identify signs of addiction

Licensed casinos are required to track abnormal activity: sharp increases in bets, frequent deposits, round-the-clock play.
When identifying signs of dependence, the operator is obliged to offer restrictions or temporary blocking.

4. Informational and psychological support

Links to organizations that help with ludomania (GamCare, Gambling Therapy, BeGambleAware).
Access to tests to assess the level of gaming addiction.
The ability to contact a customer service advisor for advice.

5. Legal and licensing requirements

Regulators (UKGC, MGA, Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner, etc.) oblige operators to document all measures for responsible play.
The absence or fictitious execution of protection mechanisms threatens with fines and revocation of the license.
Some jurisdictions provide for mandatory integration with national player control systems.

6. How a player can check for these mechanisms

Explore the Responsible Play section of the casino website.
Check whether limit setting and self-exclusion functions work.
Make sure there is access to official sources of assistance.
Compare functionality with license requirements in a particular jurisdiction.

7. Result

Protection mechanisms against ludomania in licensed casinos are not an option, but a prerequisite for working in the legal market. They help players control their actions and operators maintain an honest and safe playing environment. Choosing a casino with such tools is a step towards conscious and safe play.