The foundation said there are some alarming stories concerning young men being lured into sports betting.
Photo: RNZ / Alex Robertson
The Problem Gambling Foundation has launched a new campaign to expose psychological tactics sports betting companies use to target young men.
Are You Being Played? will highlight how gambling has become more increasingly associated with sport and how young men have been exposed to an increased amount of betting promotions.
Problem Gambling Foundation director of advocacy and public health Andree Froude said her organisation was concerned at the number of young men being lured into sports betting.
The stories the foundation was hearing were alarming.
“Students talking about bets at school, teens in uniform on the bus discussing which football team they’re going to bet on, and more young people reaching out for help.
“Through this campaign, we want to spark curiosity about the tactics sports betting companies use to keep people betting and hopefully prevent harm before it starts.”
The foundation said the campaign would highlight 10 tactics in sports betting such as sign-up bonuses, deposit matches and “free” bets “which can create a false sense of reward and low risk.
“Other tactics include constant push notifications, in-game betting options, and celebrity or athlete endorsements designed to build trust and social appeal.
“By shining a light on these strategies, the campaign empowers young men to recognise the psychological tricks at play so they can make more informed choices and avoid getting caught in a cycle of harm.”
An Entain Australia and New Zealand spokesperson said TAB and Betcha were the only betting brands in New Zealand that haD regulatory oversight of their harm minimisation practices.
They were required by legislation to put harm minimisation before profits, the spokesperson said.
“Australia and New Zealand, as the operator of these brands, takes its harm minimisation, marketing and acquisition responsibilities very seriously,” they said.
The national campaign will roll out on billboards, bus backs, some radio stations, social media, and digital banners.
It was designed in combination with creative agency 4:AM.
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