Responsible Gambling in Ireland
Gambling is a fun pastime, but it can quickly become problematic. It is easy to lose control over your gambling habits until it becomes addictive. Irresponsible gambling can lead to financial problems, complications with family and friends and can even cause you to lose your job. It is important that you gamble with caution. Online casinos and gambling authorities dedicated to responsible gambling work hand in hand to set out key measures that are designed to protect you and your interests.
What is responsible gambling?
Responsible gambling is an umbrella term used to refer to several initiatives and measures that the gambling industry has in place to make sure gamblers have a fun and safe experience online. These measures include helpful resources that protect the players from the negative effects that prolonged gambling can have on their finances and mental health. It also ensures that gamblers have adequate support if they are unable to control their gambling habits.
Responsible Gambling Tools Available at Online Casinos in Ireland
Online casinos that are legal and adhere to responsible gambling policies must have a variety of responsible gambling tools also known as RG Tools ready for players. The tools are available as soon as you sign up and can be accessed at any time. Here are some of the most common RG tools you can expect to find at online casinos.
Deposit Limits
Deposit limits are designed to limit how much you can deposit to an online casino. This gives you the opportunity to manage your bankroll better and stay within your budget. Deposit limits can be set on a weekly or monthly basis. The player will not be able to make a deposit once they have reached the max.
Time Limits
Time limits are important for restricting how much time you spend at an online casino. The casino will force you to take a break once your allocated time has elapsed. You will only be allowed to play after a certain time has passed.
Loss Limits
Chasing a loss can be very tempting. There is always the hope that the next bet will be the best bet. A loss limit is a variation of deposit or time limit. Once you lose up to a certain amount, the platform will automatically log you out. You will not be able to log back in or place bets until a set period.
Time Outs
A time out is a good way to step away from the game, readjust your focus and reconsider your priorities. These can be configured to enforce a specific period away from the tables, following the achievement of a specified threshold, such as losing a hand.
Take a Break Options
Like time outs, take-a-break options give players the option of not having access to their account for a desired length of time. This is a good choice for players who want to take a short break from gambling to focus fully on other aspects of their lives for a moment. You will not be able to access your account during your break.
On Screen Reminders
It is easy to lose track of time when you are playing exciting games, like slots and card games. Some casino operators now display the amount of time you have spent playing, as well as your total losses and wins. In case the time goes over your head, some sites display pop up messages over the games to show you how long you have spent playing and to remind you to take a break. The prompts typically ask if you would like to take a break or continue playing. You will not be able to continue playing without answering the question.
Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion measures are a way for players to ban themselves from an online casino. Like a time out, this is a voluntary break, except for an extended period. You can choose to exclude yourself from placing bets for anywhere between six months to six years. You will not be able to log into your online casino account and will not be able to create a new one with that operator until the self-exclusion period elapses. You can send a request to the casino to terminate your exclusion ban but it can take up to 3 months for them to review it, before deciding whether to grant it.