Online Gambling involves betting or playing games of chance and skill for money on Internet-enabled devices such as computers, tablets or mobile phones. It is also referred to as interactive remote gambling (IRG). It is distinguished from traditional forms of gambling such as bricks-and-mortar casinos, land-based retail outlets or placing bets over the telephone.
While online gambling can be a fun and entertaining pastime, it is important to remember that it is still a form of gambling and therefore has many of the same risks as traditional gambling. There are a number of ways that people can help to keep themselves safe while gambling online, including making sure they understand the rules and regulations before gambling and setting limits for their gambling activities.
Although it is possible to gamble responsibly on the Internet, more research is needed to better understand the relationship between Internet gambling and problem gambling, including examining how game-specific characteristics can influence players’ likelihood of developing problems. In addition, a greater focus on responsible gambling practices such as player-focused tools and resources (e.g., expenditure tracking, self-set loss limits and time outs) and tailored communication based on analysis of player accounts may reduce gambling-related harms.
The legality of gambling on the Internet is dependent on state and federal laws, as well as personal beliefs and values. While some states allow for online gambling, others have banned the practice in whole or in part. For example, Utah’s large Mormon population has led to the state banning online gambling, while Hawaii’s residents have a negative view of the activity and do not support expanding their legal framework to include it.