Data shows an increase in the number of family members seeking advice about loved ones addicted to online gambling.
Tokyo, Japan – A recent report from the Society Concerned about Gambling Addiction in Tokyo has revealed a dramatic increase in gambling addiction cases in Japan, with a staggering 11-fold rise in consultation requests over the past five years. This alarming trend is largely attributed to the rapid growth of readily accessible online casinos.
Online Casinos Fueling Addiction:
The report, which analyzed data from January to November 2024, documented 91 cases involving family members struggling with gambling addiction at online casinos. This stark figure stands in stark contrast to the mere eight cases reported in 2019, a period preceding the significant surge in online gambling activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 24/7 accessibility of online casinos through smartphones has been identified as a major contributing factor to this alarming increase.
The Link Between Addiction and Crime:
The report also highlighted a disturbing correlation between gambling addiction and criminal activity. A survey of 681 association members revealed that 30% reported family members with gambling addictions engaging in illegal activities, including:
- Embezzlement: Misappropriation of funds from employers or personal accounts.
- Theft: Stealing from family, friends, or other sources to fund gambling habits.
- Yami baito: Engaging in illegal part-time jobs to acquire funds for gambling.
A Case Study: From Pachinko to Robbery
The report detailed a concerning case study involving a former high school student whose gambling addiction, initially fueled by pachinko, escalated to more serious consequences. The student resorted to extorting approximately ¥10 million (approximately $64,000) from his mother before being arrested for robbery. This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of untreated gambling addiction.
Addressing the Issue:
Noriko Tanaka, head of the Society Concerned about Gambling Addiction in Tokyo, expressed deep concern over this alarming trend, stating: “I feel a sense of crisis over the current situation in which many people are addicted to gambling and commit crimes.”
The association is urging law enforcement to intensify efforts against payment service providers that facilitate transactions with illegal offshore online casinos. While certain forms of gambling are legal in Japan, online gambling remains prohibited.
Increased Enforcement and Public Awareness:
In response to the growing concern, Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA) launched its first investigation into illegal offshore gambling websites in August 2024. This proactive measure aims to disrupt the operations of these platforms and protect the public from the harms of unregulated online gambling.
Conclusion:
The surge in gambling addiction cases linked to online casinos in Japan underscores the urgent need for effective regulatory measures and public awareness campaigns. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including stricter enforcement against illegal operators, increased support for individuals struggling with addiction, and public education campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of online gambling.
