Japanese gamblers are actively participating in online casino betting, surpassing an annual wager of over ¥1 trillion, despite the illegality of online gambling in Japan. A recent study by Japan’s National Police Agency revealed that approximately 3.4 million individuals have engaged in online casino activities operated outside Japan, with around 2 million currently using these platforms. On average, each person bets about ¥630,000 annually, totaling ¥1.24 trillion in wagers.
The research, conducted between July and October 2024 with responses from 27,145 participants aged 15 to 79, sheds light on the demographics of online gamblers. Men significantly outnumber women among online casino users, with a majority in their twenties and thirties, comprising nearly 60% of the user base. The study also highlights the typical daily wagering amounts, ranging from ¥1,000 to ¥30,000, depending on age groups.
Interestingly, the survey indicates that the most common highest single-day winnings and losses fall within the ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 range, reflecting the volatility and risks associated with online casino betting. Alarmingly, 46.2% of respondents admitted to resorting to loans or borrowing money from various sources due to their gambling activities, with teenagers being particularly vulnerable, as indicated by a 61.1% borrowing rate among this age group.
Moreover, the study reveals a concerning lack of awareness regarding the legal status of online gambling in Japan, with 56.5% of respondents acknowledging its illegality. Shockingly, 39.8% of online casino users were oblivious to this fact, emphasizing the need for increased public education on the legal risks associated with such activities.
The National Police Agency’s investigation into overseas online casinos accessible from Japan uncovers a significant reliance on Japanese traffic by these platforms. Notably, popular sites like Vera & John Casino and Yuugado draw over 90% of their traffic from Japan, employing free versions to entice users before encouraging them to transition to paid services. These platforms employ diverse online marketing strategies to drive user engagement and attract new participants to their virtual casinos.
In conclusion, the substantial amount wagered annually by Japanese online gamblers underscores the prevalence of offshore online casino betting in Japan, despite legal restrictions. The study’s findings provide valuable insights into the behaviors and demographics of online casino users, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures and public awareness campaigns to address the risks associated with unregulated online gambling activities.