Online gambling is a legal method of gambling for profit in which betting, gaming or wagering is carried out through the Internet, an online computer network or a web portal. The gambling service charity has revealed in a report that more detailed research needs to be done in order to identify possible signs of exposure and possible consequences of those engaging in internet gambling. The report identifies four main areas of concern, which include data protection, consumer protection, regulatory issues and Internet law reform. The first area concerns the need for better data protection for online casinos, as well as a review of the UK gambling laws and the legal position in other jurisdictions where online casinos are set to operate. It also calls for more consumer awareness campaigns to be launched and concluded with improved regulation of online casinos.
The second area of concern identified relates to sports wagering and online casinos. This includes a review of the U.S. House of Representatives proposed Marketplace Fairness Act, which would impose various taxes on sports wagering and other gambling services. The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to pass this piece of legislation, but the European Commission is now considering having similar laws implemented for its member states. Concern has also been raised in relation to the possibility of a ban on online gambling occurring in the U.S. The proposed ban by the U.S. Congress could affect the major online betting businesses.
Finally, it is important to understand online gambling laws and the implications these could have on charities involved in online casinos or related activities. The U.S. House of Representatives has called for a review of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) Strategic Planning Objective 1, which identifies the current state of the U.S. gaming landscape. One aspect being looked at includes the need for a review of the existing offshore gambling casinos in the U.S., as well as those already operating in the country. Many of these offshore sites are considered to be fronts for criminal activity and illegal gambling. In light of this, understanding online gambling laws is absolutely essential if you want to play your part in helping out charities that help support the poor in many different ways.