Responsible Gambling in Greece – Guide for Greek Players

What is Considered Responsible Online Gambling in Greece?

All licensed operators adhere to the vision of the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC) for a safe and fair gambling market. In case you are not entirely sure what that means, here are a few of the important rules operators follow. First of all, the GR players who are allowed to gamble must be aged 21 and above.

Secondly, the Commission has specific rules for the best Greek online casinos about how advertising campaigns can be conducted. Sure enough, such campaigns can only target players who are above the aforesaid age.

Who Is Allowed to Gamble Online from Greece?

Everyone has their reasons to start or not to start gambling. When it comes to the latter, people have to be particularly vigilant for sights of a developing problem gambling addiction. There are risk groups that are prone to developing such addiction. We tried to list as many of them alongside a short description:

Even if you don’t identify as someone who belongs to one of these groups, you need to follow the recommendations of the official regulator in the country – the HGC. They have your best interest in mind, and that’s why they issue licences only to operators that are up to par.

Greek Responsible Online Gambling: Best Practices

The responsible gambling policy in Greece has led to the invention of practices that can keep addiction and increased financial problems at bay if followed dully. Following these practices is essential to keeping a healthy relationship with gambling. It’s important to understand these are things you can do. The HGC responsible gambling plan is already set in motion.

You probably know the rule of thumb not to chase your losses. If you understand why this is important, you will easily get to grips with the reality that gambling was meant to be done in moderation and not as a source of income. In the following paragraphs, we will dissect other important responsible gambling rules for Greek players.

Set a Budget

There are responsible gambling tools that prevent you from making larger deposits than what you’ve set beforehand. Take the time to think about how much you are willing to risk and what is unacceptable. Then, in the act of gambling, always remember your limits and don’t cross the line.

Breaking your own rules and losing is doubly frustrating and can lead to strong emotional discomfort. This could trigger a domino effect and cause other problems as well. The most easy-to-understand negative effect is not having the money to sustain your usual lifestyle.

Keep Track of Time

In order to avoid losing track of time while gambling, it’s essential for players to set a time limit and monitor their playing time. To facilitate this, proper software providers should include a built-in clock within the game itself. Of course, this is not the only way to tell the time.

You can set the alarm on your smartphone or another device to remind you not to exceed the playing time you’ve planned for that particular session. Limiting the time you spend playing games of chance can, on paper, limit your losses.

Trigger a Self-Exclusion Option

Additionally, self-exclusion options can serve as an effective barrier for players who have tried to gamble responsibly in Greece but failed. These options can be triggered in various ways, such as through self-exclusion forms, support networks, or third-party exclusion programs. It’s important for players to be aware of these options and take advantage of them if necessary.

In order to reap the benefits of responsible gambling in Greece, it’s important for players to be aware of the various options available to them. Whether it’s setting a mental barrier to resist gambling urges, seeking self-exclusion help from a responsible gambling entity, or referring to the gambling site for self-exclusion options, having a plan in place can be crucial.

By being well-prepared and informed about these options, players can take control of their gambling habits and minimise the risk of developing a gambling addiction.

Do a List of Self-Limiting Options and Stick to It

There are several steps you can take to avoid slipping into a state of mind that can put your finances and well-being at risk. Some of these include setting a budget limit, tracking your gambling time, taking regular breaks, and setting a loss ceiling. Additionally, it’s essential to keep open and honest communication with loved ones about your gambling habits and seek support when needed. Here are more ideas for self-help methods:

Following these steps will mean that you are doing what depends on you to practice responsible gambling in Greece. These practices help individuals avoid excessive gambling and prevent potential financial and emotional harm.

By setting limits, taking breaks, and seeking help when needed, players can maintain a healthy balance and enjoy betting as a form of entertainment without letting it take over their lives. It’s important to remember that gambling should always be done in moderation and within your means.

Seek Help if You Suffer from Gambling Addiction

If you struggle to follow the responsible gambling rules we laid out so far, you probably already are a victim of the bad habits bettors try to avoid at all costs. We’d suggest you turn to a Greek responsible gambling organisation for help. The official helpline for this scenario is 210 9237777, and it is set up by KETHEA – a therapy centre for dependent people. They are much better equipped to help you than we are, so don’t delay it further – call them.

Greek Responsible Gambling Organisations & Regulators

The entities discussed here are dedicated to assisting players with any gambling-related issues and providing necessary support whenever needed. In keeping with the responsible gambling policy in Greece, these organisations are there to help players who want to stay on the path of playing for real money responsibly.

Hellenic Gaming Commission

The HGC is responsible for overseeing, monitoring, and reviewing gaming to guarantee that gaming activities are lawful and equitable. It was established in 2004 under the name “Hellenic Gambling Commission” and was renamed to “Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC)” in 2011. Its mission also includes safeguarding the interests of players, minors, and the general public, as well as ensuring the collection of state revenue.

Since February 2012, the Commission has functioned as an independent administrative authority with full administrative and financial independence and autonomy, as per Law 3051/2002. The HGC has its own legal personality and is responsible for ensuring that gambling activities are carried out in compliance with the law and responsible gambling practices.

e-ASSOS Platform

The e-ASSOS platform is an initiative of the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC) that seeks to promote responsible gambling practices amongst the Greek community. This innovative platform is equipped with an array of sophisticated tools and applications that have been thoughtfully designed and meticulously developed by the HGC to inform and educate the public, as well as to cultivate gamblers’ self-protection skills.

By using this platform, you stay in touch with responsible gambling policy in Greece and stay informed about the risks associated with gambling. On the platform, you can access helpful resources and acquire the necessary skills to safeguard themselves from developing gambling-related problems. The e-ASSOS platform is a testament to HGC’s unwavering commitment to fostering responsible gambling practices in the Greek society.

Gaming Regulators European Forum

GREF is a platform that promotes cooperation and the exchange of information among gambling regulators in Europe. It is open to any authority that regulates or licences any aspect of gambling within European countries, states, dependent territories, or areas of internal sovereignty. At GREF meetings, regulators are free to exchange views and examine gambling policy change.

The goal of GREF is to enhance the effectiveness of regulation in the gambling industry and to ensure that gambling activities are conducted fairly, with integrity, and in a socially responsible manner. Through sharing best practices, exchanging information, and collaborating on common issues, GREF seeks to improve the level of protection offered to consumers and to promote responsible gambling across Europe.

KETHEA

KETHEA represents the biggest preeminent rehabilitation and social reintegration network in Greece, boasting a history of over four decades in the provision of invaluable support to individuals struggling with drug addiction and their families. Established in 1983, Ithaki, the foremost Greek therapeutic community, paved the way for KETHEA’s extensive range of services.

The services offered by KETHEA are dispensed at no cost to beneficiaries in public spaces, correctional institutions, and specialised rehabilitation facilities throughout Greece. These are one of the effective, responsible gambling tools in Greece. KETHEA’s remit extends beyond drug-related dependency, encompassing other forms of addiction such as alcoholism, gambling, and excessive internet usage, underscoring the organisation’s profound commitment to addressing the multifarious challenges posed by addiction.

International Association of Gaming Regulators

The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) serves as a vital platform for regulatory authorities involved in the gaming industry worldwide. This esteemed association affords its members the opportunity to convene and exchange ideas on the most effective techniques and strategies for regulating gaming activities, in addition to fostering networking and sharing of pertinent information.

All this can only build on the level of responsible gambling in Greece. Through active engagement with diverse regulatory authorities, the IAGR facilitates productive discussions on key aspects of gaming regulations, policies, and procedures, thereby promoting a collaborative approach to addressing challenges and driving positive change in the industry.

Risks of Excessive Gambling in Greece

In Greece and anywhere else, excessive gambling poses a significant risk to individuals and their families, as it can lead to addiction with dire consequences. This form of addiction can take a toll on an individual’s life, resulting in dangerous outcomes that can jeopardise their financial stability, relationships, and mental and physical health. Engaging in unlicensed casinos further compounds the risks associated with gambling, and individuals must exercise caution to slip down this slippery slope. Here’s more information about the risks involved:

What risks do Greek players face when not gambling responsibly?

• Inviting gambling addiction
• Exhausting financial resources
• Accumulating substantial debt
• Rejected by society
• Torn apart by adverse emotional states
• Brought to disrepute

Notably, illegal gambling in Greece attracts stringent penalties, highlighting the need for players to adhere to the established legal frameworks. To mitigate the risks associated with excessive gambling, players are encouraged to embrace responsible gambling guidelines to protect themselves and their loved ones from the harmful effects of addiction. It’s best if you stay up to date on the responsible gambling policy in Greece and always endeavour to implement the accepted norms to the best of your ability.

Greek Players Whom Gambling May Not Be Suitable For

It’s crucial to acknowledge that gambling involves risk, and certainly, not every Greek individual is suitable for engaging in such activities. It’s essential for potential players to have a clear understanding of their personal strengths and limitations and assess whether gambling is an appropriate hobby for them.

Responsible gambling in Greece must be taken seriously because it is compelled by law, and it is in everyone’s best interest to do so. Individuals who recognise themselves as belonging to any of the categories listed below should reconsider their decision to engage in gambling activities.

Greek Gambling Sites Without Responsible Behaviour to Avoid

Players must take great care when selecting gambling sites to place their bets on, as not all sites available to them may adhere to the responsible gambling rules in Greece. Examples of poor practices that may classify a website as a bad example include failing to provide self-exclusion options, not offering deposit limits, and failing to provide adequate resources for individuals experiencing problem gambling.

Additionally, sites that promote unrealistic expectations or fail to disclose important information may also be considered poor examples of responsible gambling. It’s crucial for players to research and carefully assess a site’s practices and policies before engaging in any gambling activities to ensure a safe and responsible experience. Here’s what to look for:

Ensuring that an operator follows a responsible gambling policy in Greece is an important step for any player in the country. As a responsible adult, must confirm that all the guidelines discussed are being implemented to prevent the problems discussed here and promote a safer environment for users.

Frequently Asked Questions from Greek Gamblers

The last part of this article will provide answers to frequently asked questions about responsible gambling practices in Greece. This section aims to give readers a comprehensive understanding of the topic and help them make informed decisions when engaging in activities of this kind.