Online Gambling Laws in the US

Online Gambling

Online gambling, also known as e-gambling, is the act of placing bets on sporting events and other games of skill over the internet. It includes casino games, sports betting, virtual poker, and a host of other games.

Online gambling is a form of gambling, but it is not legal in every jurisdiction. However, the United States is one of the few countries that have allowed it. The market for online gambling is estimated to be around $40 billion globally per year.

The most popular types of online gambling are poker and sports betting. Poker involves wagering on the outcome of a contest of chance, while sports betting refers to the act of placing bets on athletic events. Some casinos offer both.

Gambling can be legal in some states in the US, though state officials are concerned that it could be used to bring illegal activities into their jurisdiction. State officials have expressed that their ability to enforce the law is limited because the Internet is a global medium that can reach anyone, regardless of jurisdiction.

Another piece of legislation, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), regulates commercial activity related to the internet. It is also intended to prevent the use of financial instruments in connection with unlawful Internet bets.

Another statute, the Travel Act, also regulates the online gambling industry. While the Travel Act does not regulate Internet gambling itself, it applies to the players who use interstate facilities to engage in unlawful activities.