Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Property Gallery, we're committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices. Online casino games are designed for entertainment purposes only. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and treat any winnings as a bonus, not an expectation.
Age Verification
In South Africa, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling activities. This is both a legal requirement and an important safety measure to protect young people from the potential harms of gambling.
If you are under 18, we urge you not to use casino websites. If you are a parent or guardian concerned about a young person's online activity, please speak with them about responsible internet use.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be honest with yourself and watch for these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to recover losses by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from family or friends
- Loss of Control: Inability to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Gambling with Borrowed Money: Using credit cards, loans, or money meant for essential expenses
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating Bets: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed Attempts to Cut Back: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Using Gambling to Cope: Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Financial Problems: Experiencing debt, unpaid bills, or financial strain due to gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in your own behaviour, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos provide tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before taking a break
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from casino platforms for a set period or permanently
- Account Pause: Temporarily close your account without losing access permanently
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum stake per bet
Make use of these tools proactively. They are your allies in maintaining healthy gaming habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact one of these organizations:
South Africa
- Gambling Therapy: www.gamblingtherapy.org — Free, confidential online support and counselling
- Narcotics Anonymous South Africa: Support groups for addiction-related issues across South Africa
International Organizations
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free counselling and support services
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Counselling and support services
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Education and support resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org — Help line: 1-800-522-4700
All support services listed are confidential and free to use.
If You Need Help, Take Action Today
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to gambling, please reach out to one of the support organizations listed above. They have trained counsellors ready to assist you confidentially and without judgment.
Remember: You don't have to face this alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible.