Facebook casino gambles with children, say critics

[Jazzy]

Facebook is to offer real money casino games under a deal announced yesterday, prompting fears it would create tomorrow's generation of problem gamblers.



The social networking giant entered into the agreement with 888 Holdings, the online gaming company, to offer bingo, casino and Las Vegas-style slot games to British users.



Under the deal, Facebook will allow gamers to place up to £500 bets using a debit or credit card for a chance to win jackpots worth tens of thousands of pounds.



Last night, the American-based technology company was criticised by campaigners, who accused it of potentially creating a new generation of problems gamblers.



Despite company assurances that safeguards will be put in place to prevent minors from playing, critics suggested children could access the games through family computers.



Over the past two years, up to a million Facebook users have been able to play 888 games for “fun” on its Bingo Island website.



They accumulate “credits” on the virtual slot machines but do not win any money. But when users turn 18 they will be subject to “real money” gambling adverts.



But under the new deal, a new app for real-money bingo, called Bingo Appy, will be launched within months, followed by ones casino and other games.



Critics fear the games will attract new gamblers who experience the unrealistic odds offered on the free versions.



The new real-money gambling games will only be available in Britain, where gambling laws are more relaxed than overseas countries such as America.

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What do you think about this?

 

[Evil Eye]

Just that if these kids can use credit cards (that aren't theirs), there was nothing stopping them from gambling before it came to Facebook.

And, honestly, if there's one thing parents should keep an eye on online, it's their kids spending their money. It shouldn't be possible.