Playing at an online casino can be a form of entertainment, as long as it is done responsibly. At CasinoDinero, we analyse casinos and games based on real user experience, but also on a very clear principle: gambling only makes sense when there is control.
In Spain, playing slot machines, betting on sports, or participating in live games is legal. However, legality does not eliminate risks. The difference lies in how you play: knowing how to set limits, recognizing warning signs, and understanding when it’s time to stop. Keep reading to learn what responsible gaming really means and how to apply it in practice.
The risks of gambling
Why does addiction arise? Gambling activates very specific emotional mechanisms. When a person plays, the brain releases dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. As a result, certain experiences are repeated. The problem appears when this stimulation becomes constant and uncontrolled. This is when compulsive behavior patterns emerge.
Warning signs
There are clear symptoms that indicate a possible addiction:
- a constant need to play;
- a progressive increase in bets;
- irritability when stopping or reducing play;
- difficulty respecting limits;
- an obsession with recovering losses;
- personal problems derived from gambling.
When several of these signs appear simultaneously, it is advisable to seek professional help or family support as soon as possible.
What Is Meant by Responsible Gambling in Spain
In Spain, responsible gambling is not optional: all casinos are required to comply with it. The law sets out clear rules designed to protect players and prevent risky situations, not just general recommendations for good conduct.
In practice, this means identity checks, restrictions for minors and self-excluded players, clear rules without fine print, the removal of bonuses that encourage chasing losses, and tools that allow players to set their own limits. Casinos must follow these rules in order to operate legally, and if something goes wrong, players can always turn to the regulatory authority and file a complaint.
How These Principles Are Applied in Practice
Player identification is one of the first safeguards. Before withdrawing funds, users must verify their identity by submitting official documentation. This process protects both the player and the operator against fraud, unauthorized access, and money laundering.
Another key aspect is access control. Only adults who are not listed in self-exclusion registers are allowed to register. This measure helps prevent the development of addictive behaviors among particularly vulnerable profiles. It is also prohibited to reward losing streaks with bonuses or incentives, as this practice encourages one of the most dangerous behaviors: chasing losses through impulsive betting.
Preventing gambling addiction is another central pillar. Regulated casinos are required to clearly inform players about the risks of gambling, display theoretical return-to-player percentages (RTP), explain what gambling addiction is, and provide visible links to specialized support services. In addition, players have access to self-limitation tools, such as deposit, spending, or session-time limits, which can be configured from their profile. These tools help players maintain control of their bankroll and avoid impulsive decisions.
Transparency completes the system. Rules must be clear and free of fine print, with accessible information on payments, limits, bonus conditions, and licensing details. This allows users to verify that they are playing in a legal and supervised environment.
Basic Rules for Playing Responsibly and Preventing Addiction
Beyond what the law requires, every player should set their own personal rules: play only with money set aside for entertainment, define clear spending and time limits, avoid chasing losses, and try games in demo mode before wagering real money. These are essential habits. It is also important to always read bonus terms and assess whether they truly make sense. Not every incentive is suitable for every type of player.
You should never play with borrowed money, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, or without a defined time limit. A casino is a business, and a 100% RTP does not exist.
Winning is part of the game, but losing is as well. Knowing when to end a session — even at a loss — is one of the clearest signs of responsible gambling.
Self-Exclusion and Specialized Support
In Spain, any player can request voluntary self-exclusion from gambling, both online and land-based, through the official mechanisms of the regulator. This system blocks access to all state-licensed operators for the period chosen by the user and is one of the most effective tools for stopping risky behavior.
In addition to the self-exclusion register managed by the DGOJ, regulated operators are required to provide visible and accessible links to specialized support services, both national and international, which offer confidential and free assistance. In Spain, notable organizations include:
- FEJAR: telephone 900 200 225 or contact form on the website.
- JugarBIEN: linked to the DGOJ portal.
- GambleAware: telephone 0808 8020 133 or live chat on the website.
The former provides psychological support, rehabilitation programs, and assistance for families across different regions, while the latter focuses on prevention, information, and responsible gambling guidance, particularly for players who are still in an early risk stage. Access to these resources is immediate and anonymous. Using them is not a sign of weakness, but a conscious decision to stay in control.