Gambling in socialist states

I would like more information about gambling in socialist states. How was gambling challenged, and how successful was it? How accessible were gambling institutions to the average person? How was gambling viewed culturally? Was there ever an attempt to crack down on gambling within small groups, or was it just aimed at larger groups (casinos, etc)?

Well for Russia - I was too young, I am not sure about any kind of gambling establishments - I'd guess there weren't any, but it's a guess.

Private gambling surely existed with cards and other things. I don't remember being subjected to any education on the evils of gambling. My mother did tell me once though that it was unhealthy.