"Hraparak" writes.
Three months after the launch of the "self-blocking" system of online games in Armenia, the increase in interest in unlicensed gaming platforms raises new questions. If in January the number of visits to such platforms was 287.5 thousand, then at the end of July, after the investment, it was already 808.7 thousand, registering an almost triple increase. Does self-blocking reduce gaming activity or does it simply move some of it out of the licensed field?
Restrictions apply to licensed operators, while unlicensed platforms remain available, a self-banned player can continue to play, resulting in the system failing to achieve its goal of protecting the player. The problem is not limited to accessibility. Advertisements from unlicensed gaming platforms are becoming increasingly visible on social media. Armenian bank card payments continue to be available for playing.
In these circumstances, a question arises: how is it possible to ensure the effectiveness of self-blocking, if gaming platforms outside the licensed market continue to be advertised, remain available and accept payments?
What were the results of the changes initiated by the former deputy of the National Assembly Hayk Sargsyan after three months? What did the player gain, what did the state gain, and who actually gains when the player moves from a licensed and controlled platform to the gaming black market?
