Online gambling

With mobile phones, tablets and laptops, it is possible to gamble almost anywhere, at any time. Gambling can quickly go from being fun to being out of control. Learn what to watch out for and tips to keep yourself safe.

Traps in online gambling

Gambling websites and apps are designed to lure people so you keep going back to them. Knowing the common techniques that are used can help you know when to stop.

If the payout rates seem too good to be true, they probably are

Most overseas sites encourage you to try them with free trials or lessons. It may seem like you’re not giving them any money to play. These are likely to pay you in credits more often than the real games, giving you a false idea about how often you can win long term.

Dodgy websites ─ check they are real

Be extra careful if you gamble on overseas sites. Some sites are untrustworthy (for example, they may not guarantee your odds) and may have been designed to separate you from your money. If the site or app doesn’t look trustworthy, don’t use it!

Avoid automatic top-ups

If you’ve provided bank card details to a site or app, it’s easy to keep topping up your credits while you are gambling. Because it is so convenient, you might top up more often than you thought you would. This can lead to losing money very quickly. Don’t save your card details on the site or app. 

Keep your banking details safe

Only use websites that offer a secure internet connection. Check for ‘https’ at the beginning of the address bar and a locked padlock icon in the browser. Use a credit card or debit card with limits to reduce your risk.

Be alert on social media sites

Social media sites often provide links to play free online casino games. They can start off as harmless fun but have been proven to lead people into gambling with real money over time. A study in the US showed that 1 in 4 people who play free simulated games on social media ended up playing real casino games within 6 months.

Your legal rights when gambling on overseas sites or apps

In Aotearoa New Zealand, it’s legal to gamble on overseas sites or apps. Be aware that, if anything goes wrong, the laws that protect your rights in New Zealand will not be enforced. This is an extra risk.

Tips:

• These forms of gambling are not protected by New Zealand law: all overseas lotteries, overseas casino websites and apps, and overseas sports betting and racing.
• Look out for overseas sites that add “New Zealand” or “NZ” to their name. This may suggest that they are safe for you as a consumer, but they are still overseas sites that are not controlled by our laws.
• Lotto NZ and TAB are the only ways to gamble online in New Zealand that are controlled under New Zealand law.
• No New Zealand-based companies are allowed to offer online casino gambling such as virtual poker or roulette. If you come across online casino gambling, be extra careful.