Last week, it was announced that Facebook may be considering entering the online gambling market by launching its own applications that would allow users to place real-money wagers. The news spread like wildfire, and many operators were pleased with the announcement. However, some groups were not so impressed, and Facebook has also received its share of criticism over the potential of online gambling.
Some believe that, by offering gambling activities via Facebook, children will be encouraged to take part in such games. They will be led to believe that there are no dangers to playing casino games and could develop unhealthy opinions on the matter.
Others have more serious concerns, as it is believed that children could gain easy access to online gambling if Facebook is not careful about security and age verification. It is believed that there is a correlation between the age at which one begins gambling and the likeliness that they will develop a gambling problem. Should children be able to access gambling activities via Facebook, it could have incredibly harmful short- and long-term effects.
Those on Facebook’s side maintain that the company will work hard to ensure the protection of young teenagers and children. The company has been working with some of the most trusted names in the online gambling market to ensure that its new online gambling offering will be safe and secure.
