Online Gambling involves the use of internet-enabled devices to participate in gambling activities. It includes sports betting, casino games, fantasy sports, and online lottery tickets. It is an industry worth billions and is rapidly expanding. However, it can be extremely dangerous for some people.

The convenience of online gambling allows people to gamble from the comfort of their homes and on the go. It can also be more accessible for those with disabilities. However, the availability of such activities can be a contributing factor to gambling addiction. It can also lead to social isolation as players spend hours in front of their computers.

Online gambling can also increase financial losses, as individuals can easily make impulsive decisions and lose money without even realizing it. Furthermore, the lack of physical interaction can make it difficult for friends and family to recognize gambling habits. Lastly, unregulated sites may have unfair odds or rigged games, which can add to the addictive nature of online gambling.

Treatment for gambling addiction can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This is a type of psychotherapy that includes individual and group sessions that are focused on teaching patients ways to modify their self-destructive behaviors. It can be used in combination with other types of therapy, including motivational interviewing (MI). MI is a treatment that focuses on guiding patients through ambivalence and helping them commit to change. It can help them identify and deal with deeper emotional issues that amplify their gambling addiction.