Online Gambling is any type of gambling that is done over the Internet. It includes virtual poker, casinos, sports wagering, and lottery-type games like keno and scratch-off tickets. It began in the late 1990s with the commercialization of the World Wide Web. By the end of 1996, there were fifteen online gambling sites and by 1999, that number had increased to over 200 websites.

The growth of online gambling has led to controversy. Some governments have banned it, while others regulate it or limit its access. It has also been a subject of debate in the United States, where bills have been introduced to curb it, but have not been passed.

Many people who gamble do so for fun and don’t have a problem with it. But some people become addicted and are unable to control their gambling habits. They may experience serious consequences, including family and workplace issues, or even financial ruin. They may also suffer from withdrawal symptoms, similar to those of people with substance use disorders.

Addiction to gambling can be difficult to recognize, especially in the context of online gaming. However, there are some signs that you should watch out for: