- Key takeaway one: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased online betting, leading to a surge in young gambling addicts.
- Key takeaway two: A notable rise in crimes committed to pay off gambling debts has been observed, necessitating tighter online gambling regulations.
- Key takeaway three: The Society Concerned about the Gambling Addiction highlights the urgent need for legislative action against illegal online betting and its promotion.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the digital shift has brought about an unintended consequence—a sharp increase in online gambling addiction, particularly among the youth. This worrying trend has sparked calls for immediate action from the government to tighten the reins on online gambling activities. The Society Concerned about the Gambling Addiction (SCGA), a key player in addressing this issue, has raised the alarm over the rising wave of young individuals ensnared in the web of gambling addiction, risking criminal acts to settle their growing debts.
The Pandemic's Unforeseen Consequence
With the pandemic encouraging remote work, many found themselves spending more time on their computers, a factor that significantly lowered the barrier to online betting. The SCGA has observed a consequential spike in gambling addiction cases, particularly among the youth, indicating a problem that is only expected to worsen.
Japan's Gambling Paradox
Despite Japan's stringent stance on gambling, which outlaws all forms except for certain government-managed bets, the allure of online casino sites, even those operated overseas, remains strong. The tale of Ippei Mizuhara, a former interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani, charged with bank fraud to cover gambling debts, underscores the growing desperation among gambling addicts in Japan.
A Disturbing Trend
According to SCGA's study, which was prompted by increasing concerns over gambling addiction, there has been a significant shift in the demographic of gambling addicts, with a notable increase in cases involving individuals in their 20s and 30s. This shift is paralleled by a rise in consultations related to online wagering and government-managed gambling, pointing to a broadening spectrum of gambling avenues.
The Cost of Addiction
The findings reveal a stark reality—the average debt incurred by gambling addicts in 2023 stood at a staggering 8.55 million yen. Equally concerning is the fact that a considerable percentage of these addicts resort to illicit means, such as borrowing from black-market lenders or stealing, to finance their addiction.
The Call for Action
The SCGA's report serves as a clarion call for legislative intervention. The dramatic increase in access to illegal online betting sites and the significant portion of revenue from online wagering in government-managed gambling underscore the pressing need for comprehensive regulation. The society advocates for stringent measures against the promotion of illegal online gambling by influencers and advertisements, highlighting the detrimental impact on the youth and calling for a protective framework to shield novice and underage individuals from the pitfalls of gambling.
In conclusion, the rising tide of online gambling addiction, exacerbated by the pandemic, presents a complex challenge that requires immediate and decisive action. The SCGA's insights and recommendations offer a roadmap for addressing this issue, emphasizing the need for tighter regulations and a proactive approach to safeguarding the vulnerable segments of society from the clutches of gambling addiction.
