Most of the world’s states have some kind of regulation over online gambling, whether for legal or immoral reasons. In the United States, online gambling is banned in some states, but the Internet is legal in most states and provinces in Canada, most European Union nations, and several Caribbean nations. However, in some countries, like New Jersey, online gambling is legal, and service providers must be licensed by a governmental authority. The United Kingdom Gambling Commission, for example, has an online gambling license requirement. Pennsylvania’s Gaming Control Board is another example.
The World Trade Organization, an international trading organization, convenes panels to examine the United States’ laws regarding online gambling. In 2004, Antigua and Barbuda argued that U.S. laws against online gambling were in violation of international trade agreements. In response, the judge in Carruthers’ case ruled that the WTO ruling was admissible as a defense. The European Union has also considered filing a complaint with the WTO, arguing that the United States treats foreign businesses like criminals.
Despite being legal, online gambling can be illegal, and authorities must protect their citizens from exploitation by terrorists. Online gambling sites allow the anonymous use of credit cards and electronic funds transfers. However, this exposes terrorists to government surveillance. Furthermore, government-issued money transfers help identify suspicious individuals and unravel terrorist networks. And while many people enjoy online gambling, some risks can be a concern. The risks associated with online gambling can be great, but there are other factors that should be considered.
