Online Gambling involves betting or playing games of chance for real money, using a computer or mobile device connected to the Internet. The games can include casino games, sports betting, poker and virtual races or lotteries. Online gambling is a global industry and is expanding rapidly. Its popularity is due to the ease of access facilitated by the use of the Internet and mobile devices. Its addiction potential is also heightened by environmental influences such as targeted advertising and social pressures to gamble. Its addictiveness is further heightened by its ability to activate the reward system of the brain, similar to how drugs and alcohol do.
Like other types of addictive behaviours, online gambling can have serious consequences on a person’s life. These include disrupted personal relationships, financial difficulties, and feelings of withdrawal when the activity is discontinued. It can also lead to a sedentary lifestyle, poor eating habits and health problems such as obesity and heart disease. It may also contribute to feelings of social isolation, depression and anxiety.
New Jersey was an early adopter of iGaming and has developed a strong regulatory framework for its operators. It is seen as a model for other states considering legalising iGaming. However, there are still concerns about crime rates and public health issues. Some states have tried to curb iGaming by prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes, which can be used for vaping or ‘drifting’, while others have imposed bans on the advertising of gambling.