Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Marnus Strydom, we believe online casino gaming should be an enjoyable form of entertainment, never a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While we provide information about the best online casinos, we are committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices.
Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and remember that the house always has an edge. If you find yourself struggling with your gaming habits, help is available.
Age Verification
Online casino gaming in South Africa is strictly limited to individuals aged 18 years and older, or the legal age of majority in your jurisdiction, whichever is greater.
All licensed online casinos are required to verify the age and identity of their players. If you are under the legal age, you must not create an account or attempt to gamble on any platform.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Attempting to recover lost money by gambling more
- Hiding Your Gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Loss of Control: Being unable to stop or limit your gaming sessions
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Financial Problems: Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Gambling with Rent/Bill Money: Using funds intended for essential expenses
- Mood Changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Escalating Stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship Strain: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic session end times to prevent extended play
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an online casino or gaming platform for a predetermined period
- Account Cooling-Off: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling
We encourage you to use these features proactively as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
South Africa & Regional Resources
- National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) – South Africa's primary resource for problem gambling support and treatment referrals
- Gamblers Anonymous South Africa – Peer support and 12-step recovery programmes
International Organizations
- GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk (United Kingdom) – Free confidential support and counselling
- GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
- Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au (Australia) – Free counselling and support services
- Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org (Canada) – Evidence-based information and resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org (United States) – Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. These organisations provide confidential support at no cost.
If You Need Help
If you are experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out to one of the organisations listed above. They are staffed by trained professionals who can provide confidential support, treatment options, and practical guidance.
You don't have to face this alone. Help is available 24/7, and recovery is possible.
At Marnus Strydom, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming. If you have any concerns about gambling-related harm, please seek professional assistance immediately.