Children that play gambling games online using virtual money could become addicted to the pastime as adults, according to new research.

Experts believe roulette, slot machines and card games that can be accessed through sites such as Facebook could lead to youngsters becoming habitual or even "problem" gamers.

Dr Carolyn Downs of the University Of Salford warned that although children are only losing virtual money, they are more likely to develop an addiction problem as an adult when they have access to real currency.

"It's a long-term, life-long risk. What we're doing is setting up these kids to be problem gamblers as they go through life," the expert told the Daily Mail. 

Legally, children must be 18-years-old in order to gamble, but with these virtual sites available via Facebook, kids as young as 13 are able to play the games.

Among the games youngsters can access are Jackpotjoy, Slotomania and DoubleDownCasino.

Written by Donal Walsh

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