Gambling risks on skin sites and where to get help

Skin sites often feel like a game. In fact, real money or items with a monetary value are at stake. The risks are therefore the same as with any other gambling.

The most important risks

• The operator wins in the long run. The winning chances are designed so that the house makes money on average.
• Losses add up. Small stakes seem harmless until together they become large.
• Skins lose value. A skin can be worth less the next day than when you staked it.
• The site can disappear. The balance is then often lost.

Warning signs

• You play to win back losses.
• You stake more than you planned.
• You lie about what you stake or hide it.
• You borrow money or skins to keep playing.
• Playing is the first thing you think of when you are frustrated or bored.

What you can do

• Set a fixed budget and stick to it.
• Set time limits and take breaks.
• Never play with money you need for something else.
• Use settings such as deposit limits if the operator offers them.

On the page Responsible gambling you will find self-tests and information about support services.

When it becomes too much

If you notice that you are losing control, talk to someone you trust. Many countries have free counselling services for gambling problems. An overview by country can be found with the national addiction support services.