Online Gambling is any type of gambling conducted via the internet, including virtual poker and casinos. The first online gambling venue opened in October 1994, offering ticketing for the Liechtenstein International Lottery.
Online gambling is a fast-growing segment of the casino industry and it is predicted to remain so in the foreseeable future. This is due to the wide distribution of mobile devices and affordable betting applications as well as growing internet coverage and advanced security measures.
However, like any form of gambling, online gambling can be addictive and has the potential to negatively impact people’s lives. If you suspect that your gambling is becoming a problem, there are a number of resources available to help you get back on track. For example, you can try GamCare’s free self-assessment which will ask you a series of questions about your gambling behaviour.
In the United States, online gambling is regulated on a state-by-state basis. Legislation has been introduced to curb some forms of online gambling, such as advertising, but these have not yet been passed. Research is ongoing to understand the effects of online gambling and identify factors that may contribute to disordered gambling behaviour.
To gamble online, you need to create an account with the casino and deposit money into your ‘bankroll’. You will then use this money to place wagers and games. Winnings are added to your bankroll, and losing bets are deducted from it. The bankroll can then be withdrawn at any time, but you will need to have your identity verified before doing so.