On the Potential Benefits of Blockchain Technology in Gambling: A Perspective on Harm Reduction

Purpose of ReviewThis review highlights the fragmented network of gambling operators as a significant obstacle to effective harm reduction (HR) settings (e.g., bet/spend limits, self-exclusion). Players struggle to track their betting across operators without the ability to set universal limits, a situation exacerbated by the rising accessibility of gambling in the US. Using the strengths of blockchain technology as a digital ledger that securely records transactions, the present commentary proposes a blockchain ecosystem that could enhance bet tracking and enable universal application of HR settings.Recent FindingsPast research blockchain technology within the context of gambling largely focuses on cryptocurrencies as a payment method. While a concern for regulators, the focus of the present paper is on the largely unexplored area of decentralized gambling applications and their potential in facilitating HR settings via smart contracts (i.e., digitally self-executing contracts). Theoretically, smart contracts could be tailored to consider players' HR settings prior to a bet being approved. When included within a unified blockchain network, players' real-time gambling activities would be tracked in conjunction with their universally applied HR settings, thus enhancing the efficacy of these HR settings.SummaryThe proposal for a blockchain ecosystem aims to create a safer gambling landscape by simplifying bet tracking, and thus, increasing adherence to limit settings across operators and platforms. Despite potential scalability issues as well as legal challenges, this innovative approach would reduce risks and foster safer gambling practices. Future directions for research and policy development are offered.