Online Gambling involves gambling games played through the Internet. It is a growing market and there are concerns about its use by problem gamblers. While it is not currently considered a major cause of gambling disorders, more research is needed to understand the impact of this mode on gambling behavior. In particular, longitudinal research is needed to determine how online gambling may differ from offline gambling in terms of its effects on problems.
In addition, there are concerns that online gambling is used for money laundering. Online casinos and betting exchanges allow players to use a variety of payment methods, making them attractive to money launderers. The process of distanceing money from its illegal source through layering, covering tracks through integration and then finally converting it back into the legal economy is called placement. Online casinos offer a number of features that make it possible for this to take place, including the ability to use prepaid cards, facilitate international transactions and accept multiple currencies.
The legality of online gambling varies widely by jurisdiction, but it is generally regulated at the state level. It is common for states to restrict or ban the sale and distribution of casino games and betting platforms, but many have established licenses for operators that provide online gambling services. It is also becoming increasingly popular to play casino games and betting apps on mobile devices. This makes it easier for people to access gambling from the comfort of their own homes.