Online gambling is any type of wagering conducted via a computer. It can include virtual poker, casino games and sports betting. It is legal in some US states and most countries of the world. Despite its growing popularity, there are still concerns about the security of online gambling platforms and fraud. However, these risks can be mitigated by following some simple tips.

Online casinos are easy to access and offer a variety of games. They can also accept a wide range of payments, including bank transfers, e-wallets, credit and debit cards, and cheques. Most sites also have self-exclusion options to prevent recurrent gambling activity. Some also have player protection tools and a customer support team.

The main risk of online gambling is that it can be addictive, especially for those who are not disciplined in their spending habits. In addition, the money spent online does not feel as real as it does when spending it in a brick-and-mortar casino. If you’re worried that you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible.

In the late 1990s, the online gambling industry exploded. From just 15 websites in 1996, the number quickly increased to 200 by 1998 and the first online poker rooms were introduced. In 1999, multiplayer online gambling was also introduced. The internet gambling market continues to grow rapidly as more people become comfortable with using it. However, despite this success, many politicians are concerned about the potential for fraud and a lack of regulation. This is especially true for internet sports-betting, where players can easily use off-shore sites to avoid regulations in their home state.