Online gambling is an increasingly popular form of recreational gambling. It includes casinos, virtual poker, sports betting, and lottery games. The industry is fueled by the advances in technology, making gaming more accessible and creative.

The Gambling Act defines gambling as a contest of chance wherein one participant is staking something of value in return for the opportunity to win a prize. Some forms of gambling are illegal in the United States, including slot machines, roulette wheels, lotteries, and bookmaking.

Several federal criminal statutes have been implicated in cases of illegal Internet gambling. They include the Travel Act, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), and the Interstate Commerce Clause. Moreover, some constitutional objections have been raised.

For example, some state officials have expressed concerns that Internet gambling could be used to bring illegal gambling into their jurisdictions. While the Commerce Clause seems to provide a legitimate basis for restricting commercial activity, due process arguments are weakened when financial transactions occur in the U.S. Likewise, the First Amendment has been contested.

A recent criminal case involving UIGEA charges against an Internet poker business illustrates this. In this case, a company called K23 Group Financial Services was charged with operating an illegal online poker business.

An Internet casino is a place on the Internet that offers a variety of games, including casinos, table games, and slots. This form of gaming is legal in most states, but certain activities are prohibited in Washington.