Internet gambling is a burgeoning industry. As the number of Internet users increases, so does the likelihood of increased rates of disordered and problem gambling. Moreover, the Internet may be a means to illegally transport illegal gambling to new jurisdictions. Considering this, there is a need to develop strategies to curb the prevalence of internet gambling problems.
The most obvious benefit of internet gambling is the ease of access and the convenience of playing your favorite casino games from the comfort of your own home. Another advantage is the wide variety of betting options. However, there is still little evidence to support a link between online gambling and its problems.
Several studies have sought to investigate the relationship between Internet gambling and its problems. One study found that the rate of problem gambling among Internet gamblers was 5.7 percent, while the number of gamblers who experienced a gambling problem was comparatively lower. Nevertheless, the results were based on self-report rather than actual data. Nonetheless, this study suggested that Internet gambling is more likely to lead to problem gambling than land-based gambling.
On the other hand, most longitudinal studies have only included too few Internet gamblers to have any statistical significance. In fact, the DSM-5 Task Force on Addiction and Mental Health suggested that more research needs to be conducted on the subject. A new category of Internet Gaming Disorder has also been added to the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders.
Various laws exist to govern the conduct of wagering. In New York State, the act of entering a bet is considered a gambling activity. This law is also applicable to Internet casinos, which are facilities that allow players to use interstate facilities to place bets.
Online gambling has been legalized in a number of jurisdictions. It is a fast-growing industry and has changed the way that gamblers engage in gambling. Many jurisdictions have recognized the benefits of regulation, which can enhance consumer protection and taxation revenue. Some state officials have expressed concern that the Internet may facilitate illegal gambling, bringing it into their jurisdictions.
Internet gambling has also been linked to other types of gambling. One study cited the existence of a gambling index. However, the most important thing about this is the fact that the most accurate index will vary between different participants. Therefore, the most effective way to measure the effect of Internet gambling is to study participants who have already experienced gambling problems. While this is not necessarily the case, it does illustrate that the internet may be a factor for gamblers with existing issues.
One other useful piece of legislation is the Travel Act, which applies to all players who make use of interstate facilities to place bets. Unfortunately, however, this legislation has also raised questions about its constitutional validity. Among other things, the Act provides limited First Amendment protection to a criminal offense that facilitates speech. Because of this, state enforcement policies could be thwarted by foreign or interstate elements.