Online gambling is defined as the act of playing games of skill for money or other prize. This includes casinos, sports betting, and virtual poker. The Internet has made these activities more accessible. But it has also exacerbated some trends.
Online gambling has been a popular trend in the past. It allowed anyone to place bets on a website using their credit card. It appeared to be a way around government control. The Department of Justice conducted an investigation into the regulation of online gambling.
The federal Wire Act is the law that applies to wagering businesses. The definition of the Wire Act is broad. It appears to encompass the entire telecommunications infrastructure. It can be used to fine and imprison operators. However, there is an exception to the Wire Act, if the act is legal in both the source and destination locations.
The Internet Gambling Regulation and Tax Enforcement Act would establish a regulatory framework for internet gambling businesses. It would also license and tax them. In addition, it would provide for data security standards.
While the Internet has been a tool for facilitating knowledge, it has also been used to foster illegal activities. Online gambling has been implicated in several criminal offenses. Several federal criminal statutes are cited. Some of these include the Federal Wire Act, the Interstate Commerce Clause, the Federal Alcohol Administration Act, and the Uniform Internet Gambling Enforcement Act.
State officials have been voicing concern that the Internet may be used to bring illegal gambling into their jurisdictions. Some states have enacted laws that restrict casinos or other gaming venues to those under a certain age. In New Jersey, for example, a person must be 21 years old to enter a casino.