Guide to responsible gaming

Responsible gaming refers to a set of policies and requirements that apply to companies operating in the gambling and iGaming sector, with the goal of ensuring high quality standards and a safe user experience that protects people from the potential negative consequences of gambling. Gambling should always be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to make money, and operators and software providers are expected to respect responsible gaming principles in line with applicable U.S. laws and regulations.

Responsible gaming principles

In the context of online casinos and iGaming platforms, the main areas of responsible gaming generally include:​

  • Protection of vulnerable players.
  • Prevention and prohibition of underage gambling.
  • Security measures against criminal and illegal activities.
  • Clear and transparent privacy information.
  • Protection of online payments and financial data.
  • A safe and secure online environment.
  • Ethical and responsible marketing practices.

FreeSpins.us promotes responsible gaming by informing and educating its readers so that gambling remains a form of leisure and not a source of financial or personal problems.​

Protection of vulnerable players

Some people may develop gambling problems that turn an enjoyable pastime into an obsession, negatively impacting work, relationships, and social life. U.S.-licensed operators are encouraged or required under state regulations to provide information, tools, and resources to help players recognize and address problematic gambling behavior, including links to professional help and support organizations.​

Game limits and self‑control tools

Many online casinos provide tools that allow players to set limits on the time and money they spend on a gambling site. These tools may include:​

  • Deposit limits (daily, weekly, or monthly).
  • Loss limits and wagering limits.
  • Session time limits and reality checks.

By setting limits before playing, users can better control potential losses and avoid spending excessive time gambling. These measures are designed to help players keep gambling within a balanced and recreational dimension.​

Prevention of underage gambling

In the United States, real-money gambling is strictly prohibited for individuals under 21 in many jurisdictions and at least under 18 in all regulated markets. Online operators are required to adopt clear registration and mandatory age‑verification procedures to prevent minors from accessing gambling services, including identity checks and verification against public databases where applicable.​

All real-money games are reserved for adults and can cause gambling addiction, which is why operators must clearly display age‑restriction notices and responsible gaming warnings on their websites.​

Self‑exclusion programs

One of the key responsible gaming measures available in many U.S. states is self‑exclusion, which allows players to take a break from gambling when they feel they are losing control. Self‑exclusion can be:​

  • Temporary: The player’s account is blocked for a predetermined period, during which no deposits or bets can be made.
  • Long‑term or permanent: The player is excluded for a longer period or indefinitely, with specific conditions and waiting periods for any possible reinstatement.

The purpose of self‑exclusion is to help players regain a balanced attitude toward gambling, keeping it focused on entertainment rather than compulsion or financial problems.​

Self‑assessment tests

Many regulated online casinos and responsible gaming organizations offer self‑assessment tests to help users understand whether gambling has become a problem. These questionnaires, though simple and not diagnostic, prompt players to reflect on behaviors such as chasing losses, lying about gambling, or spending more time and money than intended, and categorize risk levels from non‑problematic player to high‑risk or problem gambler.​

If the test indicates a risk or problem, players are encouraged to seek professional help and use available responsible gaming tools such as limits, time‑outs, or self‑exclusion.

Support programs and organizations

In the United States, there are various national and state‑level organizations that work to prevent and treat problem gambling and promote legal and responsible play. These include, for example:

These organizations offer confidential assistance, educational materials, counseling referrals, and support groups for people affected by gambling problems and their families. Operators are encouraged to provide clear links and information about such services within their responsible gaming sections.

Good practices for responsible gambling

To keep gambling enjoyable and under control, it is helpful to follow these good practices:​

  • Real‑money games are strictly for adults only.
  • Set limits on time and money before playing and respect them; if limits are hard to follow, seek help.
  • Establish a budget and only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
  • Do not chase losses; playing more will not guarantee that losses are recovered.
  • Remember that each game outcome is independent; past results do not influence future wins.
  • Do not borrow money to gamble.
  • Do not treat gambling as a source of income or financial strategy.
  • Do not lie to family or friends about time or money spent gambling.
  • Avoid gambling when feeling sad, stressed, angry, depressed, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or in any state that may affect self‑control.
  • Do not believe in rituals or superstitions as ways to influence the outcome of games.

These simple rules help maintain gambling as entertainment and reduce the risk of developing problematic behavior.​

Problem gambling and warning signs

Problem gambling (gambling disorder) is a behavioral addiction characterized by loss of control over gambling and negative consequences in personal, social, and financial areas of life. According to the DSM‑5, gambling disorder is classified among behavioral addictions and shares features with substance dependence, such as craving, tolerance, and withdrawal‑like symptoms.​

Common warning signs may include:​

  • Constant preoccupation with gambling and planning future bets.
  • Need to wager increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
  • Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling.
  • Irritability or restlessness when trying to reduce or stop gambling.
  • Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative moods (anxiety, guilt, depression).
  • Chasing losses by continuing to gamble after losing money.
  • Lying to family, friends, or professionals to hide the extent of gambling.
  • Committing illegal acts (fraud, theft, etc.) to finance gambling.
  • Risking or losing significant relationships, jobs, or educational and career opportunities because of gambling.
  • Relying on others for financial “bailouts” due to gambling‑related debt.

Anyone who recognizes these signs in themselves or someone close should contact a qualified professional or a specialized support organization as soon as possible.

For more information about responsible gaming and how FreeSpins.us approaches this topic for U.S. players, you can contact: info@freespins.us or visit https://www.freespins.us/.

FO

Frank Ocean