One in Ten Online Gamblers in Ireland Has at Least Four Accounts

A study by ESRI, carried out for Ireland's Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRAI), examined 1,000 gamblers' online and in-person gambling habits, recent betting activity, exposure to advertising and efforts to cut back on gambling.

According to the study, 77% of participants gambled online last year, and 59% gambled in person. 44% used both channels. 54% of online gamblers said they opened a second account after signing up with their first operator. Attractive odds, easy registration processes and promotional offers were among the most frequently cited reasons.

26% of online gamblers said they lost a lot of money during their last gambling session, compared with 17% of those who gamble in person. Marketing is also a notable theme. About one in seven participants said their most recent online gambling sessions started after an email, app notification or gambling advertisement. Roughly one in five said they receive gambling-related notifications every day.

The study found that consumers find it easier to open accounts and deposit money than to close an account or withdraw their winnings. Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Minister Jim O'Callaghan said the findings would help the government and the regulator develop an evidence-based framework. ESRI's Pete Lunn said many people gamble for fun and are not harmed. An earlier ESRI study estimated that one in every 30 adults in Ireland gambles problematically. GRAI Director General Anne Marie Caulfield stressed that licensed operators should face stricter obligations on account opening and closing, spending limits and advertising restrictions.