Virtual Addiction, Real Suffering

Digital crimes are no longer always visible physical violence but move silently, infiltrating virtual spaces with equally destructive power. One example is the rampant online gambling, often perceived as a shortcut to quick profits. In reality, it harbours hidden criminality that erodes moral, social, and economic foundations of society. This situation is ironic as society is no longer merely victims but also active participants in the digital crime chain. In a capitalist system prioritising profit, many are tempted by promises of ease and quick gains, unaware they face not just ordinary gambling but an organised crime that can destroy individual, family, and even national life. Demographic data shows online gamblers under 10 account for 2% of the total, or 80,000 children. Those aged 10-20 make up 11% (approximately 440,000), 21-30 years 13% (520,000), 30-50 years 40% (1.64 million), and over 50 years 34% (1.35 million). (PPATK, 2024) New data from the Ministry of Communications and Digital shows a serious concern. Nearly 200,000 children have been exposed to online gambling, with 80,000 under 10 years old. These figures are not just statistics but strong signals that children’s digital spaces are increasingly vulnerable to illegal practices threatening young generations’ future. Looking deeper, the data shows a worrying trend. PPATK’s 2024 report noted 80,000 online gamblers under 10. The Ministry’s May 2026 data shows exposed children nearing 200,000. In two years, exposure surged by nearly 250%. This is not mere statistical growth but a serious alarm about online gambling’s aggressive infiltration into children’s lives. The phenomenon shows online gambling has evolved beyond ordinary issues into a social threat targeting the most vulnerable: children psychologically unprepared to understand digital manipulation risks. Our nation’s generation is ‘held captive’ by online gambling, trapped with no clear way out. Thus, the state can no longer rely solely on site blocking or sporadic enforcement.