The online gambling industry has exploded since it first began in the 1990s, but it’s not without its challenges. Centuries of gambling aversion still remain entrenched in many state legislatures, which have been slow to legalize and regulate games like real money online casino games and digital slots. However, as more and more states approve sports betting, lawmakers have become more open to approving other forms of iGaming.
One of the biggest concerns with regulating iGaming is that it can create problems similar to those seen in land-based casinos. However, iGaming providers are constantly addressing these issues with responsible gaming programs that work to ensure players don’t fall into harmful gambling patterns. In addition, iGaming providers will often restrict player accounts if they exhibit problematic behavior. This prevents players from gambling beyond their means and helps to keep them accountable for their actions.
While some lawmakers still worry about social ills and gambling addiction, more are recognizing that these new forms of gaming can bring in millions of dollars to state coffers. As a result, the legalization of online casino games and poker is picking up steam across the country.
New York, which is home to numerous brick-and-mortar casinos, is a particularly important market for online gambling. The state’s high population and wealth make it a prime candidate for iGaming.
When it comes to the state’s iCasinos, most experts expect New York’s rules and regulations to closely mirror those in place at physical brick-and-mortar locations. This should include a minimum age requirement of 21, a geolocation-based blocking system, and a level of tax commitment from iCasinos that is comparable to those in place for the New York Lottery.
iCasinos will also be required to have all of their games approved by the state’s governing body. This prevents illegal games from being offered, which can hurt players in a number of ways. For example, illegal online casinos can steal player information or sell it to third parties. In addition, illegal sites may not be audited for security or fairness. As a result, players should always play at legal online casinos.
In addition to regulated iCasinos, players should try to avoid playing at unlicensed offshore sites. These sites are often not held to the same standards as legal casinos and may violate local laws by accepting players from anywhere in the world. They may also use illegitimate banking methods or even steal player data.
If you want to gamble legally, check out the list of New York-based iGaming operators. While the state has yet to launch its iCasinos, it is expected to do so soon. In the meantime, residents of the state can enjoy sports betting at sites such as DraftKings Sportsbook NY, PointsBet Sportsbook NY, BetRivers Sportsbook NY, FanDuel Sportsbook NY, and more.