Legalities surrounding online gambling vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. In the United States, for example, the Federal Wire Act prohibits betting on sports games on a “telephone-like” device. Since most top gambling websites are located overseas, the legality of online gambling in the US is murky. Online gambling laws are largely state-level and may not apply to you. However, online gambling in the US is growing in popularity and is a growing industry.
According to one survey, 38% of Americans report playing online casino games once or twice a year, compared to only 32% who first started online gambling one to two years ago. More than eighty percent of online gamblers report playing poker with other players in the past year, and nearly as many said they play casino games for money. Only about one-tenth of online gamblers place bets on sports. Most frequented online poker games included Texas Hold ‘Em, seven-card stud, five-card draw, and Omaha.
Various bills were introduced to regulate internet gambling. One was introduced by Senator JonL. Kyl, a Republican from Arizona. The bill would have prohibited online gambling and prohibited sports gambling. However, it was not passed, as lawmakers considered it impossible to enforce. The UIGEA was signed into law in October 2006.
To play online, you’ll need a computer with an internet connection. Most gambling sites support PCs running Windows, but gradually added Mac compatibility. Today, virtually any laptop, computer, or smartphone with an Internet connection can be used to access gambling sites. As with most forms of gambling, you need to know what you’re doing and how to protect your personal information. Online gambling websites also accept payments via electronic check, wire transfer, or bank account.
The Department of Justice has also taken an offensive against the U.S. media regarding online gambling. In November 2002, PayPal ceased processing online gambling transactions. Since then, online gambling websites can only accept payment through third-party processors, including Neteller. The company was subsequently charged with money laundering and conspiracy in the U.S. However, it’s still unclear if this move will have any impact on the legality of online gambling in the U.S.
While the federal government is trying to regulate internet gambling, individual states have made the process slower. Since 2011, New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware launched online poker and online casinos. And now, three more states have made their online gambling legal. If all states legalize online gambling in the US, it will be huge and expand rapidly. While many states are not ready for this, it’s important to note that the legal status of online poker in New Jersey, Delaware, and Michigan remains unclear.
The new law states that players cannot transfer money to casinos without first downloading special software. However, the UIGEA does not apply to private payment processors. These companies do not disclose how they earn money, which could lead to some unsavory situations. Many people have been tempted to gamble online with these privately held companies. But it’s not as easy as it seems. So, before jumping into online gambling, take a look at these legalities and see if you agree.