WT blocks online gambling websites

CANYON, Texas (KVII) — Online gambling sites can no longer be accessed using West Texas A&M University resources, including WiFi.

“College students at a particularly formative stage in their lives can develop habits and lifestyles that are akin to drug and substance abuse,” said President Walter Wendler. “There is not a single thread of evidence showing predatory gambling has a positive impact on academic excellence.”

Effective immediately, WT students, faculty and staff are not allowed to access any online gambling site using state resources, including any WT-owned cell phones, laptops, tablets, desktops, and other internet-connected devices.

Online gambling websites will also be blocked for anyone using WT-provided WiFi, which includes visitors to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the WT Enterprise Center and Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center.

According toThe Conversation, nonprofit news organization, 6-percent of college students have gambling addiction problems. That’s twice the percentage of U.S. adults.

“With the rise of online gambling and sports betting apps, access to gambling has never been easier,” Wendler said.

Students with gambling debts are more likely to use student loans, credit cards and personal loans to pay their debts and finance future bets.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.