BALTIMORE — FBI arrests in an alleged illegal gambling scheme are prompting a closer look at problem gambling as mobile betting becomes increasingly accessible in Maryland.

The ease of accessing sportsbooks through smartphones has made gambling more convenient than ever, but this increased accessibility is creating new challenges for Maryland residents.

"We saw really significant increases in the numbers of both people doing online sports betting, but also that have a problem when they're doing it," said Dr. Christopher Welsh, director of research at the University of Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling.

Welsh compared the warning signs of gambling addiction to those of drug addiction, noting several key indicators that betting has become problematic.

"Doing it much more

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