Online Gambling (or iGaming) is the internet-based activity of placing wagers and participating in gambling games. It is a part of the wider gambling industry and can be conducted on personal computers, mobile devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets) and digital televisions. The activity is facilitated by the use of electronic payment systems and high-speed internet connections that allow rapid placement of wagers.

Online gambling offers unique opportunities for criminals to exploit unsuspecting users. Criminals may collaborate with other parties to manipulate game outcomes, exploit software vulnerabilities, or create sophisticated scams targeting unsuspecting gamblers. In addition, phishing attacks and social engineering tactics are used to illicitly access customer data and compromise account security. As a result, the average fraud rate for gaming and gambling websites has more than tripled during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although gambling is a popular pastime for many people, it can have serious negative consequences for those who are vulnerable to problem gambling or have underlying mental health issues. Problem gamblers may experience financial difficulty, disruption to daily living, and increased risk-taking. Additionally, gambling can become addictive, leading to a significant increase in spending.

To help prevent these problems, reputable operators take responsible gambling seriously. They offer a range of tools to help players manage their spending, including deposit limits and time limits. They also provide on-site resources and promote responsible gambling. However, the lack of a universal definition of problem gambling makes it difficult for regulators to assess the effectiveness of these initiatives.