Recognizing The Threat Of Online Gambling And The Difference With Online Games

Illustration. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKARTA - In the digital era that continues to grow, online games are one of the main entertainments for many people. So, it is important for the public to understand the differences between safe and potentially harmful games. Especially in Indonesia, where issues about security and game legality are often in the spotlight.

Card games and chess such as Slot Machines, Texas Hold'em, and Domino are often associated with gambling. However, basically almost all kinds of games can be abused for gambling activities. Even trivial things such as the game of stone-sports or sporting events can be a medium for betting. People need to understand that the essence of gambling is not the type of game, but the act of 'juggling' itself.

The issue of differences between online games and online gambling often generates controversy in the community. The chairman of the Indonesia Cyber Security Forum, Ardi Sutedja, explained the difference between online gambling and online games.

"There is a difference between the two. Online gambling must involve a certain bet of money, and usually the chances of losing are very high. Meanwhile, online games are more focused on skills and playing skills, where pleasure and sensation come from winning or losing while playing games, without any money," said Ardi, in his statement, Friday, May 10.

Not all online games meet these criteria. In short, gambling is a two-way process where cash can be exchanged for valuables and vice versa, and creates an opportunity to convert rewards back into cash or similar goods.

Recently, Higgs Domino Island (HDI) has been in the spotlight in Indonesia because it is considered to have elements of gambling. The "Send" feature in HDI has been abused by a number of individuals with bad intentions, which causes the blockage of the game. However, the HDI developer has collaborated with the Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to ensure that this platform remains a safe and healthy game environment.

The decision to reopen access to HDI was made after complying with the guidelines set by the Ministry, including closing the "Send" feature in Indonesian territory. This confirms that although HDI involves card game elements, it is not a gambling platform.

Keep in mind that gambling is an illegal activity that involves large amounts of money transactions with the main goal of getting financial benefits. Meanwhile, online card games are legitimate entertainment that aims to provide pleasure and entertainment for users. Playing online card games has many positive benefits, such as stimulating the mind, increasing social interaction, and improving strategic skills.

Ardi said that the most important thing is to share time in playing online games and using games for entertainment only on the sidelines of free time.

"Online gambling is a serious threat to society, even ranks second after drugs. Therefore, he invites all parties to unite and jointly fight this destructive phenomenon for the sake of mutual prosperity," added Ardi.

Education and public awareness about the risks of online gambling as well as prevention efforts made by game developers and the relevant government can help protect players, especially the younger generation, from dangerous gambling traps.