The popularity of sports betting, casino and other games is growing steadily; they have become an integral part of people's daily lives, and an expression of their happiness and wellbeing. Some behaviour that is absolutely harmless when practised in moderation may entail a risk of addiction for small groups of the population. For example, shopping may become addictive, as can playing sports, eating or consuming alcohol.

In the case of gaming addiction, a person's life may be dominated by games of chance. He or she may use gaming as a means of escaping possibly unresolved problems or inner conflicts. A person addicted to gaming may have many unconscious motives, and though winning money is a strong incentive, it is only one of many.

We are aware that taking part in any kind of games of skill or games of chance may lead to personal and social problems. In this connection, we assume responsibility in many ways through information and prevention.

Since summer 2007, all customer enquiries relating to problem gaming have been channelled through Customer Support to a "Responsible Gaming Team". The team's task is to ensure that the online gaming products contribute to the customer’s entertainment in a positive way. Within the CSR department, the team makes sure that existing measures are continually improved, and that new interactive and proactive prevention schemes are developed. In serving this purpose, it acts as an interface with a research project. It is also responsible for informing and training employees in this field.

Some time ago, we started setting up joint ventures with established independent therapy/counselling/treatment institutes so as to be able to recommend professional counselling and therapy to customers at risk. With a special focus on the Internet, the Company intends to develop entirely new solutions, particularly in the area of prevention.

Joint research project with the Harvard Medical School (a Cambridge Health Alliance Division on Addiction)) We have built up a long-term research project in collaboration with Harvard Medical School. The first stage of this project involves compiling and analyzing objective and valid data with respect to the gaming habits of potential problem gamers. At the second stage, preventive measures will be developed and evaluated in the light of these results.

The primary objective of this project is to detect early signs of gaming addiction and to prevent addiction if possible. Mediation is yet another important purpose of the project: this involves detecting conspicuous behaviour earlier so as to be able to respond with appropriate measures - taking into account the individual’s particular situation where possible. Ideally, this programme will not only prevent pathological gamers from continuing to play, but also make them aware of any problemsthey may have while offering suitable help and support.

The project with Harvard Medical School has initially been planned to last three years, and has been financed by ourselves to the amount of EUR 1.4 million.

Safe entertainment coupled with responsibility
We have no intention of telling our customers what to do. Our definition of social responsibility is based on the responsible attitudes of our customers. Some examples of the remedies offered by the Company are outlined below.

Gaming addiction – how do I tell if I am at risk? Where can I obtain assistance?
If you wish to obtain a detailed analysis of your behavioural traits, use the toolkit provided by the Harvard Medical School (time required: about 20 minutes).

Harvard Medical School toolkit Our research partner in this joint venture has implemented its results in a toolkit. The following link will take you to a Harvard Medical School website offering support for potentially pathological gamers, a detailed analysis of existing behavioural traits, and assistance with developing self-help strategies:
Harvard Medical School toolkit