The phenomenon of online gambling, who doesn’t feel uncomfortable when they are scrolling through social media or viewing content but there are online gambling advertisements? It must be really disturbing. Because online gambling advertising has become a widespread phenomenon in various media, such as social media and the internet. Ease of internet access and high smartphone penetration are the main factors behind the rise of online gambling advertising.
On the one hand, online gambling advertising offers opportunities for business actors to reach potential consumers more widely and effectively. Digital media platforms with global reach allow them to target specific audiences based on their demographics, interests and online behavior.
However, on the other hand, online gambling advertising also poses various challenges, both for society and for the media industry.
Negative Impact of Online Gambling Advertising:
Online gambling advertising, for all its appeal, carries a number of negative impacts that should not be ignored. These impacts are devastating, especially for vulnerable groups in society. Let’s examine it in more depth.
Gambling Addiction That Triggers Mental and Financial Health
Seductive and easily accessible online gambling advertisements are a major trigger for gambling addiction, especially among the young and vulnerable. The excitement of gaming, promises of victory, and the lure of riches can keep individuals trapped in a cycle of addiction that is difficult to break. The impact is not only on mental health, but also has the potential to destroy the financial stability of individuals and their families.
Mental Disorders Due to the Pressure of Winning and Losing
Online gambling advertisements often feature instant wins and the luxurious lifestyle associated with them. For those who lose at gambling, this can trigger feelings of anxiety, depression and stress. The pressure to achieve immediate success as shown in advertising can significantly affect an individual’s mental well-being.
Significant Financial Loss
Online gambling carries not only the risk of addiction, but also the potential for large financial losses. Individuals and their families can fall into a cycle of debt and financial hardship that is difficult to overcome. This can cause prolonged economic instability and affect their well-being in the long term.
Violations of Regulations and Laws
Many countries have strict regulations regarding online gambling, including advertising restrictions. However, online gambling advertising often violates existing regulations, putting the media and companies involved at legal risk. This not only harms society, but also creates legal uncertainty that is detrimental to all parties involved.
Visual Trash that Damages Public Aesthetics
Additionally, flashy and intrusive online gambling advertisements can be considered visual waste. Inappropriate placement and messages that disrupt public aesthetics are not only annoying, but can also damage people’s visual and psychological environment.
Challenges for the Media Industry
Media that broadcast online gambling advertisements risks losing credibility in the eyes of the public.
Loss of trust: Media viewers and readers may lose trust in media that broadcast online gambling advertisements.
Ad revenue decline:
Online gambling advertising can reduce advertising revenue from other sectors because it is considered unethical and does not suit the target audience.
Lawsuits:
Media that broadcast online gambling advertisements are at risk of being sued by injured parties.
Efforts to Overcome Online Gambling Advertising:
In addition to the efforts mentioned previously, there are several additional solutions that can be explored:
Technology Development
Developing technology to effectively detect and block online gambling advertising is a proactive step that needs to be considered. Sophisticated algorithms and software can be used to identify ads that violate regulations and block them before they reach consumers’ eyes.
International Cooperation
International cooperation between countries in dealing with online gambling advertising is also important. Since the internet knows no national borders, concerted efforts to enforce regulations and track illegal gambling practices across borders could be an effective step in addressing this phenomenon.
Problem Conclusion
By considering the various aspects that have been described, it is clear that handling the online gambling advertising phenomenon requires an integrated, holistic and sustainable approach. The media industry, government, society and other relevant parties need to work together to overcome these challenges to create a healthier and safer media environment for all parties involved.
