Since placing his first bet at age 15, Dylan says he's lost at least $900k
A 24-year-old man from Victoria has lost at least $900,000 gambling since placing his first bet at age 15.Summary
Dylan*, a 24-year-old from Victoria, began gambling at age 15 when he lost his birthday money on an online puzzle game that used cryptocurrency. Despite the initial loss, he became addicted, eventually placing bets as high as $32,000 and losing at least $900,000 since turning 18. The article highlights the ease with which underage individuals can access gambling apps and the normalization of sports betting among youth. Secondary school teachers report students gambling during class, often bypassing security protocols. Public health researcher Dr. Hannah Pitt notes that young people are particularly vulnerable to inducements like bonus bets and are exposed to gambling advertising through influencers and social media. The article concludes by advising parents to look for signs of gambling harm, such as changes in mood, spending habits, and school performance, and to seek to understand their child's online world.
(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))