Experts warn of increased gambling risks during the World Cup

Dr. Kyriakos Veresies, Scientific Director of the Center for Information and Treatment of Addicted Persons (KENTHEA) and professor at Philips University, has issued a warning regarding gambling addiction risks during the FIFA World Cup. He highlighted that widespread advertising, including offers of 200-300 euro bonuses, significantly influences public behavior. Dr. Veresies noted that the shift toward mobile online betting removes the physical barrier of visiting agencies, making gambling more accessible and addictive. He advises families to monitor the financial habits of minors closely and discuss responsible money management. While he does not advocate for a complete ban on betting, he emphasized the importance of preventing compulsion and dependency. If an individual feels unable to stop, he recommends immediate intervention and seeking support from family or professionals. The expert specifically pointed to the saturation of betting advertisements in Cyprus as a major factor contributing to the heightened risk environment.