Online gambling is a form of gambling that takes place over the internet. It includes casinos, sports betting, and virtual poker. In many countries, online gambling is legal, but there are still some that limit it.
A recent study revealed that nearly ten percent of the adult population in the United States bet at least once a week on casino games. This includes sports betting and horse racing wagering.
The government has responded to the growing popularity of online gambling by introducing federal regulations. These rules address online gambling and prohibit platforms that allow users to make illegal Internet bets. Some states also have enacted laws governing online gambling.
As a result, the number of sites operating on the internet has increased. In 1998, about 200 sites were operating, and a Frost & Sullivan report stated that revenues from online gambling had reached $830 million. However, more than half of the states have not yet legalized online gambling.
In April 2007, Congress introduced HR 2046, or the Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act. This legislation would modify the UIGEA and add new requirements to license internet gambling facilities.
The bill would also require the director of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to license Internet gambling operations. These facilities would need to meet certain standards for data security and age verification.
The law also provides penalties for violating these guidelines. Bettors who breach the guidelines could be fined, or face up to six months in prison.