The rise of online gambling in the 1990s was a surprising development. In many ways, it seemed like an end-run around government control of gambling, with operators able to set up shop in an offshore jurisdiction. All that was required was a credit card and a web browser, and people around the world were able to place wagers. This prompted the Department of Justice and Congress to explore the legality of online gambling and how to regulate it.
While online gambling is legal on a federal level, the legality of sports betting and casino gambling varies by state. Most states have limited laws regarding online gambling, but they do allow residents to wager on sporting events and poker sites. Some states have even legalized online poker sites. These states will likely continue to be a major force in the future of online gambling, and ensuring that it remains legal in your state is an important first step.
Online gambling has become a huge industry, with millions of people gambling on various platforms every day. However, before you start playing, it is important to understand some basic rules.