Typically, gambling is a game of chance in which a person wagers money on an event without a specific outcome. However, gambling can also be a form of entertainment. Typically, gambling is regulated by state laws. A person cannot gamble without a permit.
A person who violates gambling laws may be charged with either a fine or a jail term. Some states have different laws for different types of gambling. Some states require an age limit for all types of gambling. Others require a different age limit for different types of gambling.
A person who violates gambling laws can be fined or jailed for up to six months. A fine is also possible for a person who uses a computer to illegally access online gambling sites.
The United States has largely avoided enforcing Internet gambling laws. However, in 2011 the Department of Justice allowed states to pass legislation regulating online gambling. The Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act (HR 2046) was introduced in April 2007. Its intent is to modify the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA). It would require all online gambling facilities to be licensed by the director of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FCE).
The US Department of Justice has interpreted the 1961 Wire Act as extending to all forms of Internet gambling. It is illegal for a US banking institution to allow a customer to deposit or withdraw funds to an offshore gambling site.