Online gambling or e-gambling, as it is also known, is a form of betting on casino games, sports and other events online. Unlike physical casinos, where gamblers are required to physically visit the establishment to place their bets, online casinos are able to offer live dealer and traditional gambling games, including roulette and blackjack. Also, a number of casino sites allow players to place wagers through mobile devices.
Many of these sites are regulated by the UKGC and MGA. These organizations ensure that online casinos are secure, safe and reliable, offering fast banking options. However, not all internet casino sites are reputable. This is especially true if an individual is looking to place a bet on sports. For this reason, it is important to choose a reputable site. The following is a brief look at the regulations that apply to Internet casinos.
In December 2002, the General Accounting Office issued a report titled Internet Gambling: Overview of Issues. The report covered the various issues surrounding Internet gambling, including the state laws governing it.
The Public Gambling Act, 1867, a central piece of legislation, is not specific about online gambling. It was adopted in some states. There are also other laws governing gambling. Some of these include the Travel Act, which applies to Internet casinos and players using interstate facilities for unlawful activities.
Another law that regulates gambling is the United States Consumer Protection Act, which was enacted in 1986. Although it is not aimed at Internet gambling, this act can be a barrier to preventing people from engaging in illegal activities. While a person can avoid penalties by not doing so, the statute can also hinder state enforcement policies.
Internet gambling is primarily governed by state laws, which means that federal law is largely confined to reinforcing state laws in cases of violations. One problem is that in some states, the laws concerning gambling are very different from one another. So, for example, a person in Illinois may have a right to gamble but not in New York. Similarly, a person in California may have a right to gamble but not a right in Virginia.
In addition to state laws, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) is a federal law that prohibits people from placing bets, receiving bets or transmitting bets over the Internet. It carries a number of provisions, including location verification, age verification and appropriate data security standards. Additionally, the UIGEA imposes restrictions on the financial instruments that can be used to make Internet bets.
The UIGEA was the subject of a criminal case, United States v. K23 Group Financial Services. This case involved a series of Internet poker operators. Several of them were charged with violations of 18 U.S.C. 1955, including money laundering. They were also required to pay a $4.2 million fine.
Another UIGEA violation relates to a company called PayPal, which offers Internet payment services. The company is reportedly in violation of the statute, and the Attorney General has warned that PayPal could face prosecution.