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\nThe foundation said there are some alarming stories concerning young men being lured into sports betting.
\nPhoto: RNZ \/ Alex Robertson\n<\/p>\n
The Problem Gambling Foundation has launched a new campaign to expose psychological tactics sports betting companies use to target young men.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The stories the foundation was hearing were alarming.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“Other tactics include constant push notifications, in-game betting options, and celebrity or athlete endorsements designed to build trust and social appeal.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
They were required by legislation to put harm minimisation before profits, the spokesperson said.<\/p>\n
“Australia and New Zealand, as the operator of these brands, takes its harm minimisation, marketing and acquisition responsibilities very seriously,” they said.<\/p>\n
The national campaign will roll out on billboards, bus backs, some radio stations, social media, and digital banners.<\/p>\n
It was designed in combination with creative agency 4:AM.<\/p>\n