Online gambling is a growing industry that offers a wide variety of gaming options. These include casino games, virtual poker, and sports betting. Many of these games offer bonuses and promotions to increase player interest. However, these rewards also carry with them some risks, such as the possibility of financial ruin and depression. Therefore, it is important to be aware of these threats.

The Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection Act of 2013 was introduced by New York Republican Congressman Peter King. This law would create a federal standard for online gambling. It would also create a new office of “gambling oversight” that would be attached to the Treasury Department. The purpose of this oversight would be to monitor gambling activity on the Internet.

The Federal Communications Commission has jurisdiction over common carriers and has the authority to shut down facilities and discontinue providing services. It has the authority to fine companies that violate the law. But, it is not clear whether this authority applies to the online gaming industry.

Several states have been concerned that the Internet may be used to bring illegal gambling into their state. A study by Harvard Medical School found that the majority of online gamers are playing in a moderate manner. This has led to concerns that some casinos are using their sites as fronts for fraudsters.

The United States government has responded to these concerns with a series of legal actions. One case involves a money laundering charge for Internet poker operators. Another involved a public service campaign for a company that agreed to pay a $4.2 million fine. Other cases involve bars and establishments that have video poker machines.

In the United States, the definition of unlawful Internet gambling includes using the Internet to place bets, receiving bets, or transmitting bets. The Commerce Clause and the Due Process Clause have been used to oppose enforcement of the federal law. But these arguments have not proved particularly effective.

While the federal government does have the authority to make a judgment about the legality of Internet gambling, it has been challenged on constitutional grounds. In particular, Section 1956 of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act raises concerns about the constitutionality of federal prosecutions for illegal gambling. It allows the government to enforce the law when it is necessary for “the concealment, disruption, or prevention of the flow of a gambling operation.”

In addition to the federal legislation, several states have passed laws regulating online gambling. These include Nevada, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. While the states are still in the process of drafting their own laws, the Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection Act of 2013, would provide a federal standard for online gambling and make it easier for the gaming industry to grow.

The Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumers Protection Act of 2013 would also allow the Federal Communications Commission to issue cease and desist orders to the companies that engage in unlawful Internet gambling. The agency could also stop furnishing and maintaining facilities.