Safer gambling requires informed decisions, self-control and awareness of the possible risks. Every form of gambling is based on uncertainty and may lead to losing money. For this reason, gambling should be treated only as a form of entertainment, and not as a way to earn income or solve financial problems.

A person’s ability to gamble safely is directly linked to their ability to recognise whether gambling is having a negative effect on their financial, professional, social or personal life. Recognising these signs early is important for preventing problematic behaviour.

Responsible and Safe Gambling includes setting personal limits, managing the time and money spent on gambling, and being able to stop when gambling is no longer an enjoyable activity. Using self-protection practices helps reduce risks and maintain control.

Under the regulatory system applied in the Republic of Cyprus, licensed casinos are required to implement Responsible Gambling Programmes and player protection measures. These measures include, among others, the option to set voluntary money and time limits, visit limits, self-exclusion mechanisms, and access to information and support material.

At the same time, players are encouraged to use available tools and safer gambling strategies, such as planning their available income, setting spending and time limits in advance, taking regular breaks, and avoiding behaviours such as trying to win back money that has been lost.

Using responsible gambling tools and recognising possible difficulties early can help maintain a safer, more controlled and balanced gambling experience.