REGULATION OF ONLINE GAMBLING AND GAMING PLATFORMS

This article is written by Ratnesh Tembe of 6^th Semester of PIMR, an intern under Legal Vidhiya

ABSTRACT

The rapid growth of online gambling and gaming platforms has raised significant regulatory challenges worldwide. This research article explores the current landscape of regulation governing these platforms, analyzing the effectiveness of existing policies in protecting consumers, preventing fraud, and ensuring fair play. By examining case studies from various jurisdictions, the article identifies key regulatory approaches and their impacts on both the industry and its users. The study also addresses the convergence of gambling and gaming, such as loot boxes and microtransactions, which blur traditional boundaries and complicate regulatory efforts. Through a critical analysis of the legal, ethical, and economic implications, this research offers recommendations for enhancing regulatory frameworks to better address the evolving nature of online gambling and gaming, aiming to strike a balance between industry innovation and consumer protection.

Keywords

Online gambling, Gaming platforms, Regulation, Consumer protection, Loot boxes, Microtransactions, Legal frameworks, Fraud prevention, Fair play, Industry innovation, Ethical implications, Consumer Protection.

INTRODUCTION

The rapid proliferation of online gambling and gaming platforms has transformed the digital landscape, creating a vast and dynamic ecosystem that spans across continents. With the advent of the internet, traditional forms of gambling have evolved into sophisticated, virtual experiences, accessible to millions at the click of a button. Simultaneously, the rise of online gaming has blurred the lines between entertainment and gambling, with features such as loot boxes and in-game purchases introducing elements of chance that closely resemble traditional gambling activities.

As these platforms continue to grow in popularity, they have also attracted significant attention from regulators and policymakers worldwide. The global reach of online gambling and gaming presents unique challenges, as legal frameworks often differ drastically from one jurisdiction to another. This divergence can lead to a complex regulatory environment, where platforms operate in a patchwork of legal systems, each with its own set of rules, restrictions, and enforcement mechanisms.

The regulation of online gambling and gaming is further complicated by the rapidly evolving nature of these industries. New technologies, such as blockchain and cryptocurrencies, are being integrated into these platforms, offering new opportunities but also creating additional regulatory hurdles.

The following research article aims to explore the current state of regulation for online gambling and gaming platforms, examining the key legal, ethical, and technological challenges that arise. By analyzing regulatory approaches from around the world, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of how various governments are responding to the unique demands of these industries. Furthermore, it will discuss the implications of these regulations for both operators and consumers, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that protects vulnerable populations while fostering innovation in the digital economy.

Through this analysis, the article aims to contribute to the broader discourse on how best to regulate online gambling and gaming in a way that is both effective and adaptable to the ever-changing digital landscape.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this research article is to critically examine the regulatory frameworks governing online gambling and gaming platforms, with a focus on evaluating their effectiveness in safeguarding consumers, preventing fraudulent activities, and maintaining fair play. The study aims to explore the convergence between gambling and gaming, particularly in areas such as loot boxes and microtransactions, to assess how current regulations address these hybrid practices. By analyzing regulatory approaches across different jurisdictions, the article seeks to identify best practices, highlight potential gaps, and provide actionable recommendations for enhancing regulatory policies to better align with the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Historical Overview of Online Gambling and Gaming Regulation

The regulation of online gambling has a relatively short but complex history, beginning in the mid-1990s with the advent of the internet. Early efforts to regulate online gambling were largely reactionary, driven by concerns over consumer protection, money laundering, and the potential for gambling addiction. The introduction of online casinos and sports betting platforms prompted many jurisdictions to develop specific legislation, with varying levels of restrictiveness. Studies, such as those by Gainsbury et al. (2012)[1], have documented the diversity in regulatory approaches, ranging from prohibition in countries like the United States under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 (UIGEA)[2] to more permissive models like those in the United Kingdom, which established the UK Gambling Commission in 2005 to oversee and regulate the industry.

Parallel to the growth of online gambling, the gaming industry has evolved significantly, particularly with the rise of digital and online gaming. Initially, gaming regulation focused on age restrictions, content classification, and copyright issues. However, the integration of monetization strategies such as loot boxes and microtransactions has introduced elements that resemble gambling, complicating the regulatory landscape. King and Delfabbro (2019)[3] discuss how these hybrid features challenge traditional definitions of gaming and gambling, creating regulatory gray areas that require new policy considerations.

Current Regulatory Approaches

Current regulatory approaches to online gambling and gaming vary widely across jurisdictions, reflecting differences in cultural attitudes towards gambling, economic interests, and legal traditions. For example, the United Kingdom’s regulatory framework, governed by the UK Gambling Commission, is often cited as a model of comprehensive oversight, incorporating stringent measures for consumer protection, anti-money laundering, and responsible gambling practices (Wardle et al., 2019)[4] . Conversely, in the United States, regulation is more fragmented, with individual states adopting their own laws, leading to a patchwork of regulatory standards.

In the gaming industry, regulation has traditionally been less stringent, focusing more on content ratings and age restrictions rather than financial transactions. However, the rise of loot boxes—a feature where players purchase virtual items with real money, without knowing what they will receive—has prompted calls for greater scrutiny. Studies by Zendle and Cairns (2018)[5] highlight the similarities between loot boxes and gambling, leading to regulatory responses in several countries. Belgium, for example, has classified loot boxes as gambling, leading to their ban in certain games, while other jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom, have opted for a more cautious approach, investigating the issue further before deciding on regulatory measures.

Ethical Considerations and Consumer Protection

The ethical implications of online gambling and gaming, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as minors, are a significant focus of contemporary research. The accessibility and anonymity provided by online platforms can exacerbate issues related to gambling addiction, as noted by Griffiths and Parke (2010)[6]Additionally, the convergence of gaming and gambling through loot boxes and microtransactions raises concerns about the potential for exploitation, particularly when these features are targeted at younger audiences. The work of Drummond and Sauer (2008)[7] emphasizes the need for stricter regulatory measures to protect consumers from predatory practices, advocating for clearer distinctions between gaming and gambling in both policy and practice.

The Convergence of Gambling and Gaming: ‘Loot Boxes and Microtransactions’

The convergence of gambling and gaming, particularly through the inclusion of loot boxes and microtransactions, represents a significant shift in the digital entertainment landscape. These features have blurred the lines between traditional gaming and gambling, raising questions about how they should be regulated. Zendle and Cairns (2018) have documented the psychological similarities between loot boxes and gambling, noting that the randomized nature of loot box rewards can trigger the same addictive behaviors as traditional gambling.

Economic Implications for the Industry

The regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms has significant economic implications for the industry. On one hand, stringent regulations can increase operational costs for companies, potentially limiting innovation and market growth. Studies indicate that heavy regulatory burdens can deter new entrants into the market, consolidating the dominance of established players. On the other hand, clear and consistent regulatory frameworks can provide a stable environment for investment, helping to build consumer trust and ensuring long-term sustainability for the industry.

The monetization strategies used by gaming companies, particularly loot boxes and microtransactions, have proven to be highly lucrative. Research by Hamari and Keronen (2017)[8] shows that these features significantly boost revenue, making them a critical component of the business model for many online games. However, the growing regulatory scrutiny of these practices may necessitate changes to these models, with potential impacts on profitability and market dynamics.

Future Directions and Policy Recommendations

As the online gambling and gaming industries continue to evolve, so too must the regulatory frameworks that govern them. Future research should focus on the development of more adaptive and comprehensive regulatory models that can address the rapidly changing digital landscape. Studies suggest the need for international collaboration in regulatory efforts, particularly given the global nature of online platforms. Additionally, there is a growing call for more research into the long-term effects of loot boxes and microtransactions on consumer behavior, with implications for both regulatory policy and industry practice.

EFFECTIVENESS OF CURRENT REGULATORY APPROACHES

The regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms represents a critical intersection of technology, law, economics, and ethics. As these platforms continue to grow in popularity and economic significance, the challenge for regulators is to develop frameworks that can effectively manage the risks associated with these activities while supporting innovation and industry growth. This discussion delves into several key themes that emerge from the literature: the effectiveness of current regulatory approaches, the implications of the convergence between gambling and gaming, the ethical concerns surrounding consumer protection, and the economic impact on the industry.

The literature reveals significant disparities in how different jurisdictions approach the regulation of online gambling and gaming. Countries like the United Kingdom have established comprehensive regulatory frameworks, as seen with the UK Gambling Commission[9], which balances consumer protection with the interests of the industry. This model has been praised for its robust oversight mechanisms, including stringent licensing requirements, anti-money laundering measures, and responsible gambling initiatives. However, even in well-regulated environments, challenges persist, particularly in enforcing regulations across international borders and within the rapidly evolving digital space.

In contrast, the regulatory landscape in the United States is fragmented, with individual states adopting their own approaches. This patchwork of regulations can create challenges for both consumers and operators, leading to inconsistencies in protection standards and operational difficulties for companies trying to navigate multiple legal environments. 2020[10] notes that this fragmentation may hinder the development of a cohesive national strategy for regulating online gambling, which could provide greater clarity and protection for consumers.

The situation becomes more complex when considering jurisdictions with minimal or no regulation. In these regions, consumers are at greater risk of exploitation and fraud, and there is little recourse for those affected by unfair practices. The disparity in regulatory approaches also raises questions about the role of international cooperation in regulating online platforms that operate across borders. It is argued that international collaboration could help harmonize standards and provide a more consistent level of consumer protection globally.

CONVERGENCE OF GAMBLING AND GAMING – REGULATORY IMPLICATIONS

One of the most significant challenges in regulating online platforms is the convergence of gambling and gaming, particularly through features like loot boxes and microtransactions. These mechanisms, which are prevalent in many popular online games, share characteristics with traditional forms of gambling, such as the element of chance and the use of real money for uncertain outcomes. This convergence complicates the regulatory landscape, as it blurs the lines between two traditionally distinct activities.

The debate over whether loot boxes constitute gambling is central to this discussion. While some jurisdictions, such as Belgium and the Netherlands, have classified loot boxes as gambling and banned them accordingly, others have adopted a wait-and-see approach, opting for further investigation before implementing regulations. This divergence reflects broader uncertainties about how to categorize and regulate these hybrid features.

King and Delfabbro (2019)[11] emphasize that the lack of a clear regulatory framework for loot boxes and similar mechanisms can lead to consumer harm, particularly among younger users who may not fully understand the risks associated with these features. The psychological similarities between loot boxes and gambling, as highlighted by Zendle and Cairns (2018), suggest that stricter regulation is warranted to protect consumers, particularly those who are vulnerable to addictive behaviors.

The convergence of gambling and gaming also raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of game developers and publishers. While these features can be highly profitable, they can also exploit players, particularly those who are susceptible to gambling addiction. The ethical implications of monetizing games through mechanisms that resemble gambling are significant, and they call for a reevaluation of industry practices and regulatory oversight.

ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND CONSUMER PROTECTION

Consumer protection is a central concern in the regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms. The accessibility and anonymity of online platforms can exacerbate issues related to gambling addiction and financial exploitation. Griffiths and Parke (2010) point out that online gambling, in particular, poses unique risks due to the ease with which consumers can engage in these activities without the physical and social cues that might otherwise encourage moderation.

The convergence of gaming and gambling through loot boxes and microtransactions adds another layer of complexity to consumer protection efforts. These features are often embedded in games that are popular among minors, raising concerns about the exposure of young people to gambling-like activities. Drummond and Sauer (2018) argue that stricter regulatory measures are needed to protect these vulnerable populations, including clearer labeling of games that include loot boxes, age restrictions, and limits on spending.

However, consumer protection efforts must balance the need to protect users with the rights of individuals to engage in these activities freely. Abarbanel (2018)[12] suggests that transparency and informed consent are key components of consumer protection, advocating for measures such as clear and accessible terms and conditions, as well as the availability of self-exclusion tools. These measures can empower consumers to make informed choices while providing safeguards against harmful practices.

The ethical implications of monetization strategies in gaming also extend to issues of fairness and transparency. Players often invest significant time and money into games with loot boxes and microtransactions, yet the randomized nature of these features means that outcomes are uncertain and can feel unfair. This lack of transparency can undermine trust in the gaming industry and lead to calls for greater regulatory oversight to ensure that players are treated fairly.

ECONOMIC IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY

The economic implications of regulating online gambling and gaming platforms are significant. On the one hand, stringent regulations can increase operational costs for companies, potentially stifling innovation and market growth. 2020[13] notes that heavy regulatory burdens can deter new entrants into the market, consolidating the dominance of established players who are better equipped to navigate complex legal environments. This could lead to a less competitive market, reducing choices for consumers and slowing the pace of innovation in the industry.

On the other hand, clear and consistent regulatory frameworks can provide a stable environment for investment, helping to build consumer trust and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. A well-regulated market can attract investment by providing clear rules and reducing the risk of legal disputes or reputational damage. The UK’s regulatory approach, for example, has been credited with creating a stable and attractive market for both domestic and international operators.

The monetization strategies employed by gaming companies, particularly loot boxes and microtransactions, have proven to be highly lucrative, with significant revenue implications for the industry. However, the growing regulatory scrutiny of these practices may necessitate changes to business models, with potential impacts on profitability and market dynamics. If stricter regulations are imposed on loot boxes, for example, companies may need to find alternative revenue streams, which could impact their financial performance and the overall structure of the gaming industry.

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The discussion of regulatory approaches, consumer protection, and economic implications highlights the need for a balanced approach to the regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms. Regulators must navigate the complex interplay between protecting consumers, supporting industry growth, and addressing the ethical implications of converging gambling and gaming practices.

Future regulatory frameworks should be adaptive and responsive to the evolving digital landscape. This includes developing clear definitions of what constitutes gambling within gaming contexts and implementing robust consumer protection measures that can keep pace with technological developments. International collaboration will be essential in addressing the global nature of online platforms, ensuring that regulations are consistent and effective across jurisdictions.

In terms of policy recommendations, there is a growing consensus that loot boxes and similar features should be more strictly regulated, particularly to protect minors and vulnerable populations. This could involve classifying these features as gambling, implementing age restrictions, or requiring greater transparency in how these features operate. Additionally, regulators should consider the broader ethical implications of monetization strategies in gaming, encouraging industry practices that prioritize fairness and transparency.

In conclusion, the regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms presents significant challenges but also opportunities for creating a safer and more transparent digital environment. By addressing the complexities of this rapidly evolving industry, regulators can help to ensure that both consumers and the industry can thrive in a fair and responsible manner.

ONLINE GAMBLING AND GAMING IN INDIA : CURRENT SCENARIO

1. Introduction to online gambling and gaming in India

India has witnessed a significant surge in online gambling and gaming activities over the past few years, driven by increased internet penetration, smartphone usage, and the growing popularity of digital payment methods. However, the regulatory landscape surrounding online gambling and gaming in India remains complex and fragmented due to the country’s federal structure and varying state laws.

2. Current legal framework for gambling in India :

The legal framework for gambling in India is primarily governed by the Public Gambling Act of 1867, a colonial-era law that prohibits the operation of gambling houses in India. However, this Act does not specifically address online gambling, as it was enacted long before the advent of the internet. The law primarily deals with physical gambling activities and does not cover modern online platforms.

Each state in India has the authority to formulate its own laws regarding gambling, leading to a patchwork of regulations. For example, states like Goa and Sikkim have legalized certain forms of gambling and gaming, including casinos and online lotteries, while others like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have imposed strict bans on online gambling and gaming.

3. Limitations of existing laws

The existing laws regulating gambling in India, particularly the Public Gambling Act of 1867, have significant limitations in addressing the modern realities of online gambling and gaming. Key limitations include :

1. Lack of Clarity – The laws do not clearly define what constitutes online gambling and gaming, leaving it open to interpretation.
2. Jurisdictional Challenges – The federal structure allows each state to regulate gambling independently, resulting in a lack of uniformity across the country.
3. Inadequate Enforcement Mechanisms – The current laws are not equipped to effectively monitor and regulate online gambling activities, especially when they operate from outside India.
4. No Specific Regulation for Skill-based Games – While some states have laws that distinguish between games of skill and games of chance, there is no consistent nationwide regulation for skill-based online gaming.

4. Recent developments and bills introduced

Recognizing the need to address the challenges posed by online gambling and gaming, the Indian government and various state governments have introduced several legislative measures in recent years.

1. The Online Gaming (Regulation) Bill, 2022 – This bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by MP Dean Kuriakose in April 2022. The bill aims to establish an effective regulatory framework for online gaming in India. It proposes the creation of a central regulatory body that would oversee online gaming activities, set standards, and ensure compliance with the law. However, the bill has not yet been passed into law.
2. State-Level Bans – Several states have taken independent measures to regulate or ban online gambling and gaming. For example, Tamil Nadu passed the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Online Gambling and Regulation of Online Games Act in 2022, which banned online games involving betting. However, this law was challenged and struck down by the Madras High Court. Similarly, Karnataka had passed a law banning online gambling in 2021, but it was struck down by the Karnataka High Court in 2022.
3. MeitY’s Draft Rules for Online Gaming[14] – In 2023, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released draft amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which included provisions for the regulation of online gaming platforms. The draft rules propose mandatory registration of online gaming intermediaries with a self-regulatory body and prohibit online games that involve wagering.

5. Challenges and future outlook

1. Balancing Regulation and Innovation – Striking a balance between regulating online gambling to prevent addiction and fraud while fostering innovation in the gaming industry is a major challenge.
2. Harmonizing State and Central Laws – There is a need for greater coordination between state and central governments to create a uniform regulatory framework that addresses the unique challenges of online gambling and gaming.
3. Addressing Social Concerns – Online gambling and gaming raise concerns about addiction, financial losses, and the impact on youth. Addressing these concerns through effective regulation and awareness campaigns will be crucial.

LEGAL ANALYSIS

The regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms presents a complex legal challenge due to the convergence of traditionally distinct activities—gambling and gaming—within a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Legally, this convergence raises significant questions about the adequacy of existing regulatory frameworks, the classification of gaming features like loot boxes, and the balance between consumer protection and industry interests.

Jurisdictional Disparities and Fragmented Regulation

Online gambling regulation varies significantly across jurisdictions, leading to a fragmented global landscape. In countries like the United Kingdom, the legal framework is well-developed, with the UK Gambling Commission enforcing strict rules on licensing, anti-money laundering, and responsible gambling. However, in countries like the United States, regulation is highly fragmented, with individual states enacting their own laws. This fragmentation complicates enforcement and creates legal ambiguities, especially for operators working across multiple jurisdictions.

Legal Classification of Loot Boxes and Microtransactions[15]

The legal status of loot boxes and microtransactions is one of the most contentious issues. Some jurisdictions, such as Belgium and the Netherlands, have classified loot boxes as gambling, resulting in legal bans on their inclusion in games. These decisions are based on the criteria that loot boxes involve an exchange of real money for a chance outcome, a key characteristic of gambling. However, other countries, like the United Kingdom, have not yet classified loot boxes as gambling, opting instead for further investigation. This inconsistency in legal definitions reflects broader uncertainties about how to categorize and regulate these hybrid gaming features.

Consumer Protection and Ethical Considerations

Legal frameworks often prioritize consumer protection, particularly in gambling regulation. However, the integration of gambling-like mechanics into gaming, which is often marketed to minors, presents unique legal challenges. Many legal scholars argue that existing consumer protection laws are insufficient to address the risks posed by these features, particularly for vulnerable populations. The ethical concerns surrounding the targeting of minors and the potential for gambling addiction suggest a need for legal reforms that impose stricter age verification, transparency requirements, and spending limits.

Regulatory Responses and Industry Impact

Legal responses to the convergence of gambling and gaming are evolving, with some jurisdictions moving towards more stringent regulations while others adopt a wait-and-see approach. The legal scrutiny of monetization strategies like loot boxes could lead to significant changes in industry practices, potentially impacting profitability and business models. Moreover, the legal pressure to classify and regulate these features as gambling could set important precedents, influencing future regulatory trends globally.

RELEVANT CASE LAWS

1. United States v. Scheinberg (2011)[16] : This case involved the founders of three major online poker companies—PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker, and Absolute Poker—who were charged with illegal gambling, money laundering, and bank fraud under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006. The case, also known as “Black Friday” in the online poker community, led to the shutdown of major online poker sites in the U.S. and a re-evaluation of online gambling regulations.
2. R v. Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, ex parte Remote Gambling Association (2007)[17] : The Remote Gambling Association (RGA) challenged the Gambling Act 2005, particularly its regulations on advertising by foreign operators. The High Court ruled that the restrictions were justified to protect consumers. This case upheld the UK’s strict regulatory regime for online gambling and set a precedent for how foreign operators are treated under UK law.
3. Sportsbet Pty Ltd v. New South Wales (2012)[18] : Sportsbet challenged New South Wales’ licensing scheme that imposed higher fees on out-of-state bookmakers. The High Court of Australia ruled that the licensing scheme was constitutional. The decision affirmed the power of Australian states to regulate online gambling within their jurisdiction, including imposing differential fees on operators.
4. State of Karnataka v. Indian Poker Association (2013)[19] : The Karnataka High Court ruled that playing skill-based games, like poker, is not considered gambling under Indian law. This case distinguished between games of skill and games of chance in the context of online gaming. The ruling provided a legal basis for the operation of online poker platforms in India, subject to state laws.

CONCLUSION

The regulation of online gambling and gaming platforms is at a critical juncture, driven by the rapid evolution of digital technologies and the increasing convergence of gambling and gaming activities. This convergence, particularly through mechanisms like loot boxes and microtransactions, has blurred the lines between these traditionally distinct sectors, creating significant challenges for regulators worldwide. The existing regulatory frameworks, while effective in some jurisdictions, often struggle to keep pace with these developments, leading to inconsistencies and gaps in consumer protection.

As this analysis highlights, there is an urgent need for regulatory frameworks that are not only adaptive but also harmonized across borders to effectively manage the global nature of online platforms. Legal definitions of what constitutes gambling must be revisited to encompass new and emerging practices within gaming, ensuring that vulnerable populations, particularly minors, are adequately protected.

Ethical considerations, particularly regarding the potential for exploitation and addiction, underscore the need for stricter regulation and greater transparency in how these platforms operate. The balance between fostering industry innovation and safeguarding consumer interests will be crucial in shaping the future of online gambling and gaming regulation.

In conclusion, regulators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders must collaborate to develop comprehensive and forward-looking legal frameworks that address the complexities of the digital landscape. By doing so, they can ensure that the online gambling and gaming industries can continue to thrive in a manner that is fair, transparent, and socially responsible.

REFERENCES

1. The latest amendments to the Online Gaming Intermediary Guidelines, 2021, https://theleaflet.in/the-latest-amendments-to-the-online-gaming-intermediary-guidelines-2021/.
2. Abarbanel, B. (2018). Gambling vs. gaming: A commentary on the role of regulatory, industry, and community stakeholders in the debate. Gaming Law Review, 22(4), 231-234. doi:10.1089/glr2.2018.2242
3. Drummond, A., & Sauer, J. D. (2018). Video game loot boxes are psychologically akin to gambling. Nature Human Behaviour, 2(8), 530-532. doi:10.1038/s41562-018-0360-1
4. Gainsbury, S. M., & Blaszczynski, A. (2017). How blockchain and cryptocurrency technology could revolutionize online gambling. Gaming Law Review, 21(7), 482-492. doi:10.1089/glr2.2017.2174
5. Gainsbury, S., Parke, J., Suhonen, N. (2012). Consumer attitudes towards Internet gambling: Perceptions of responsible gambling policies, consumer protection, and regulation of online gambling sites. Computers in Human Behavior, 28(2), 603-609. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2011.11.006
6. Griffiths, M. D., & Parke, J. (2010). Adolescent gambling on the internet: A review. International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health 22(1), 59-75. doi:10.1515/IJAMH.2010.22.1.59
7. Hamari, J., & Keronen, L. (2017). Why do people buy virtual goods: A meta-analysis. Computers in Human Behavior, 71, 59-69. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2017.01.042
8. Humphreys, B. R. (2020). Regulation and the evolution of the global gaming industry. Handbook of Economic Regulation, 177-202. doi:10.4337/9781788972730.00021
9. King, D. L., & Delfabbro, P. H. (2019). Video game monetization (e.g., ‘loot boxes’): A blueprint for practical social responsibility measures. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 17(1), 166-179. doi:10.1007/s11469-018-0009-3
10. Macey, J., & Hamari, J. (2019). eSports, skins and loot boxes: Participants, practices and problematic behavior associated with emergent forms of gambling. New Media & Society, 21(1), 20-41. doi:10.1177/1461444818786216
11. Rose, I. N. (2020). The US legal landscape for online gambling. Gaming Law Review, 24(1), 8-11. doi:10.1089/glr2.2020.2414
12. Wardle, H., Reith, G., Best, D., McDaid, D., & Platt, S. (2019). Measuring gambling-related harms: A framework for action. Report by the Gambling Commission, UK.
13. Zendle, D., & Cairns, P. (2018). Loot boxes are again linked to problem gambling: Results of a replication study. PLOS ONE, 13(10), e0206767.

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[1] Gainsbury, S., Parke, J., Suhonen, N. (2012). Consumer attitudes towards Internet gambling: Perceptions of responsible gambling policies, consumer protection, and regulation of online gambling sites. Computers in Human Behavior, 28(2), 603-609. Doi:10.1016/j.chb.2011.11.006.

[2] Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, 2006 (UIGEA), U.S.A.

[3] King, D. L., & Delfabbro, P. H. (2019). Video game monetization (e.g., ‘loot boxes’): A blueprint for practical social responsibility measures. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 17(1), 166-179. Doi:10.1007/s11469-018-0009-3.

[4] Wardle, H., Reith, G., Best, D., McDaid, D., & Platt, S. (2019). Measuring gambling-related harms: A framework for action. Report by the Gambling Commission, UK.

[5] Zendle, D., & Cairns, P. (2018). Loot boxes are again linked to problem gambling: Results of a replication study. PLOS ONE, 13(10), e0206767.

[6] Griffiths, M. D., & Parke, J. (2010). Adolescent gambling on the internet: A review. International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health 22(1), 59-75. Doi:10.1515/IJAMH.2010.22.1.59.

[7] Drummond, A., & Sauer, J. D. (2018). Video game loot boxes are psychologically akin to gambling. Nature Human Behaviour, 2(8), 530-532. Doi:10.1038/s41562-018-0360-1.

[8] Hamari, J., & Keronen, L. (2017). Why do people buy virtual goods: A meta-analysis. Computers in Human Behavior, 71, 59-69. Doi:10.1016/j.chb.2017.01.042.

[9] UK Gambling Commission, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Government of UK.

[10]https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Online_gambling , last visited 06.08.2024.

[11] King, D. L., & Delfabbro, P. H. (2019). Video game monetization (e.g., ‘loot boxes’): A blueprint for practical social responsibility measures. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 17(1), 166-179. Doi:10.1007/s11469-018-0009-3

[12] Abarbanel, B. (2018). Gambling vs. gaming: A commentary on the role of regulatory, industry, and community stakeholders in the debate. Gaming Law Review, 22(4), 231-234. Doi:10.1089/glr2.2018.2242.

[13] https://blog.ipleaders.in/gambling-laws-across-world , last visited 07.07.2024

[14] The latest amendments to the Online Gaming Intermediary Guidelines, 2021, https://theleaflet.in/the-latest-amendments-to-the-online-gaming-intermediary-guidelines-2021/, last visited 24.08.2024.

[15] https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/regulating-online-gaming , last visited 08.08.2024.

[16] United States v. Pokerstars, et al., 11 Civ. 2564 (2011) .

[17] R v. Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, ex parte Remote Gambling Association (2007) , [2007] EWHC 1312.

[18] Sportsbet Pty Ltd v. State of New South Wales and Ors Case No. S118/2011(Consolidated appeal from special leave applications S290/2010 and S291/2010.

[19] Indian Poker Association v. State of Karnataka, (WP Nos. 39167 to 39169 of 2013).

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