Increasingly, Internet gambling is becoming a popular pastime. This is due in part to the convenience of the internet, the ease of access to a vast betting universe, and the ability to make large bets with minimal effort. However, while Internet gambling may be a boon to consumer protection, it can also serve as a pathway for illicit activity. For example, a number of state officials have expressed apprehension about the prospect of the Internet facilitating illegal gambling in their jurisdictions.
While the technology to conduct Internet gambling is not entirely new, the advent of high-speed Internet connections has made it possible to make rapid bets. Additionally, the proliferation of wireless and other portable devices has made it easier to access the Internet.
It is no secret that Internet gambling is growing at an exponential rate, and it is also no surprise that state and local officials are expressing concerns about how the Internet can facilitate the spread of illegal gambling in their jurisdictions. The proliferation of online gambling sites also makes it easier for gamblers to engage in a plethora of wagering activities without ever leaving home. This translates into an increase in the likelihood of disordered gambling. While there is no clear cut answer as to whether or not there is a causal relationship between gambling and disorder, a number of factors have been proposed as potential culprits.
The best bet for identifying the best practices and regulations for Internet gambling in the United States is to focus on the state and local jurisdictions. There are many advantages to regulating the industry, including consumer protection and taxation revenue. However, the commercial nature of the gambling business can also be a source of contention.
A more formal approach to the subject is to review a variety of research, literature, and case studies. This paper provides an overview of what the research community has found. It will also highlight some of the more noteworthy findings that have been reported in recent years.
The most obvious benefit of the Internet is its ease of use. While some might argue that playing a game of Texas Hold ‘Em with a friend is an equivalent to the real thing, the sheer novelty of having a gambling venue at your fingertips has made it more attractive to prospective gamblers. It is also worth noting that Internet gaming has a reputation for being pathological, which is a scary thing to consider.
The biggest drawback to Internet gambling is the fact that there are no governing bodies to monitor or regulate the industry. This can make it difficult to ensure that legitimate, legal gambling websites are following all of the rules and protocols. In addition, there are interstate and foreign elements that can thwart state enforcement policies. For this reason, federal law should be viewed as a complement to state laws.
The most important point to remember is that the simplest Internet gambling application is not the most effective. The most important component of a successful online gambling site is ensuring that it uses security measures that can protect personal information from being stolen. It is also essential to check out the reviews of customers that have used a particular Internet casino. These reviews are not only informative, but they are also indicative of the real-world experiences of consumers.