Online Gambling Laws – Your Responsibilities

Online Gambling LawsWhen it comes to online gambling laws, it’s the player’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with the legislation on both a state and a federal level.  Historically speaking, each state regulated all forms of betting within their borders.  However, because these regulations differed to a large degree, Congress took control over the statutes pertaining to interstate commerce.  The majority of these laws were enacted before there was such a thing as online gambling.

Over time, online casinos became more popular and widespread.  Most of them are established overseas, which has made it extremely difficult to enforce any violations of online gambling laws.  This is the best way to avoid any United States law that regulates online gambling. Because the United States lacks the authority to extradite in these cases, there is no feasible way for them to enforce these laws offshore.  Consequently, online gambling is considered to be a bit of a grey area in terms of the law.  For example, although online wagering is technically prohibited throughout much of the US, the fact that the casino operations are based outside of the country make it virtually impossible to prosecute, let alone convict, individual players.

Online Gambling Laws and Players – Enforcement

There are more than 70 countries that allow online casinos to conduct business within their borders.  This includes Australia, South Korea, Finland, Denmark, Germany, France, parts of Canada, and New Zealand.  When you decide to register as a real money player at one of these online casinos you will be required to accept the casino’s terms and conditions.  Part of these terms and conditions generally state that the player “warrants and represents” that they meet the legal age of majority requirements of the state in which they reside.  Furthermore, the player must accept the responsibility for determining is legal within their state borders.  In the event that gambling is illegal, any winnings could potentially be forfeit.

The US Wire Wager Act makes it against the law for any other country to transmit bets via electronic wire (including the Internet) to areas where gambling is prohibited.  This means that if a casino operating from the United Kingdom allows a US player to wager on their games, they are breaking US online gambling laws.  The reality is, however, that the United States doesn’t actually have the authority necessary to prosecute someone from another country.   Since players are seldom ever prosecuted too, the Act is, for the most part, pretty unenforceable.  And while this may seem like good news, the downside is that should one of these offshore casinos decide to steal a player’s winnings, the player won’t have the option to sue the casino if the online gambling laws state that it is illegal in their home state.

Regulated casinos within the United States is a very new phenomenon.  There are currently just three states in which online gambling is completely legal: Nevada, Delaware, and New Jersey.  These three states are required to follow very strict guidelines and meet all necessary regulations to ensure that the online casinos don’t violate the law.  Gamblers who play at these licensed casinos can be assured of fair odds and prompt payment of any and all winnings.  Online gambling laws are evolving all the time and will continue to do so as more states come online.  Players who have questions about the legality of online gambling in their jurisdiction are encouraged to consult a reputable source.

 

 

Celebrate 4th of July with USA Online Casino Games

USA Online Casino GamesMany USA online casino games are based on themes.  Oftentimes these themes reflect key moments in history.  On July 4th the United States celebrates Independence Day.  This federal holiday commemorates the country’s independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain, aka the United Kingdom.  On July 4, 1776, the United States adopted the Declaration of Independence.  This national celebration is highlighted by patriotic events throughout the country.  Events highlight the nation’s laws, heritage, and people.  The day is marked with parades, family gatherings, and fireworks.

To honour this patriotic holiday many software providers have developed USA online casino games with patriotic themes.  Although they are designed to glorify the splendor of the United States, they can be enjoyed equally by players throughout the world.  Below is a quick run-down of some of the most popular games you can play to celebrate this very special holiday.

Captain America Slot Machine

One of the most popular USA online casino games is Captain America.  This 5-reel, 20-payline video slot machine is available on the Playtech software platform.  Through Playtech’s licensing agreement with Marvel Comics, the iconic superhero battles against the notoriously wicked Red Skull.  This stars-and-stripes themed slot machine offers free spins and multipliers.  Expanding wilds provide opportunities for bigger wins.  The Captain America slot machine is one of many Marvel-themes available at Playtech-powered casinos.  Ironically, because this slot machine is only available on the Playtech platform, it can only be played by non-US residents.  Unfortunately Playtech stopped accepting US play after the enactment of the UIEGA in 2006.  International players can find Captain America slots at Omni Casino.

USA Online Casino Games – Bars and Stripes 

US residents looking to play USA online casino games need not despair.  Microgaming not only welcomes US players, they also offer a great game for the 4th of July, Bars and Stripes.  Bars and Stripes is a 5-reel, 25-payline slot machine celebrating Americana.  The slot machine reels showcase iconic aspects of US culture.  This includes hot dogs and apple pie, footballs and the American bald eagle.  Players love the bonus round, which is a “pick the hat” challenge with a top payout being a whopping 50,000 coins.   You can try your luck playing Bars and Stripes at Royal Vegas casino.

USA Online Casino Games – Stars and Stripes

You can’t get much more patriotic than BetOnSoft’s Stars and Stripes slot machine.  This is a classic 3-reel, 1-line slot loaded with American flags, star-spangled sevens, as well as the iconic bald eagle. The slot’s wild is an American flag.  It can replace other symbols in order to produce winning combinations and multipliers. The slot’s max payout is 1,600 coins.  You’ll find Stars and Stripes as well as a host of other classic USA casino games at several online casinos.

USA Online Casino Games – Blackjack

Slots aren’t for everyone.  When it comes to USA online casino games, some people prefer the tables.  Blackjack is a classic game that was given the name blackjack when it was introduced in America.  The game’s popularity is due in large part to its simplicity.  The goal of the game is very simple; players attempt to have a hand with a combined card count that is higher than the dealer’s count but not more than 21.  Blackjack is available for free play and real money play at almost any online casino.

No matter how you choose to celebrate Independence Day, USA online casino games are something to consider.  They offer hours of patriotic-flavored entertainment!

Special World Cup Bonus Available Now at Casino Titan

World Cup bonusWorld Cup Fever is spreading but Casino Titan‘s World Cup bonus is the cure.  For a limited time, football fanatics can get a taste of the action by playing “Football Frenzy!” right now at Casino Titan.  Head on over to this popular online casino now and you’ll be rewarded with a 300% World Cup bonus and 10 free spins.  So, for example, simply by making a $50 deposit, you’ll receive an additional $150 in bonus money.  This not only gives you a total bankroll of $200, but you also get 10 extra spins on the house.  To collect this sensational World Cup bonus offer, simply use the bonus code “FRENZY300.” Casino Titan welcomes players the world over, including Canada and the United States.

Football Frenzy is an extremely popular 5-reel, 50-payline slot machine developed by Real Time Gaming.  The game is chock full of footballs, Strikers, Referees, Goalkeepers, and whistles.  It packs a graphic punch that makes you feel like a World Cup champion.  Loaded with features, Football Frenzy offer jackpots both big and small, two gaming modes, as many as 100 free spins as well as a “Penalty Kick” bonus round.  In this bonus round you have the opportunity to collect up to 900 times your total wager.  Football Frenzy’s base game is more generous than the average RTG slot machines.  Several of the symbols appear to be stacked and wins that include the Wild symbol are doubled.  As a result, wins are bigger and easier to come by, making this a great game to use with your World Cup bonus.

Your World Cup Bonus Awaits

While nothing can really compare to the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a World Cup match, playing Football Frenzy will definitely bring you one step closer to the action.  Keep in mind, like other casino bonuses, the acceptance of this World Cup bonus is subject to terms and conditions.  Players must meet the wagering requirements before withdrawing any winnings.

Casino Titan has been in operation since 2008. The casino has a license to provide online casino services from the Government of Netherlands Antilles. The software is available in several languages, such as English, Italian, German, French and Spanish. All casino transactions are processed in US dollars.   The casino runs on the hugely popular Real Time Gaming Platform.  Consequently, members can choose from an impressive suite of classic and modern casino games.

Casino Titan frequently offers great promotions that allow players to increase the size of their bankrolls. Along with these bonuses, players collect comp points on all real money wagers.  In addition to special weekly promotions the casino also has a VIP club.  VIP members enjoy faster withdrawals and Loyalty Points can be redeemed more quickly.  Casino Titan accepts deposits via several methods including credit cards, Skrill, Neteller, and other popular e-wallets.  A 10% bonus is available to players who utilize alternative payment options.  So, whether you’re looking to cash in on the excitement of the World Cup or are simply looking for a safe and reliable gaming destination, Casino Titan is a great bet.

Popular Casino Games – The Classic Games

Popular Casino GamesAsk anyone to name popular casino games  and odds are that more often than not the game they will mention is slots.  This is due, at least in part, to the fact that slots are much more widely played games as opposed to some of the other traditional online casino games.  Most people are drawn to the slot machines because they are so easy to play.  All you have to do is push a button and watch the reels spin.  What these players don’t always realize that there are other games that are not only easy to play, but also offer a greater risk/reward ratio.  Take the game of roulette for example.  It is solely based on a tiny silver ball spinning around a wheel that is numbered from zero to thirty-six.  Winners are determined based on where the ball lands.  However, it’s the fact that players can customize their bets according to their tolerance of risk that makes it very appealing to many players.

Another well-known classic online casino game is blackjack. Unlike video slots, whose outcomes are purely a matter of chance, blackjack falls on the other end of the spectrum because it is a game based on skill and strategy, not just luck.  While slot machines are one of the more popular casino games in part because there are so many different ones to choose from, blackjack also comes in many variations, which helps to keep the game interesting.  By applying even just a tiny bit of strategic knowledge, blackjack can be not only a hugely entertaining, but also potentially very profitable online casino game.

Popular Casino Games – The Top 3

While it may appear similar to blackjack, baccarat really is a horse of a different colour.  Both popular casino games rely on the use of playing cards, but whereas blackjack has an element of skill built in, baccarat is entirely based on luck.  The tie bet is an awful bet in baccarat because it gives the house an advantage in the 13-14% range.  If you avoid the tie bet completely, then the house advantage is actually rather small.  When it comes to action, this online casino game doesn’t pack a huge punch, but it is a great social game and if you play the live dealer version or within a multi-player environment, you get the opportunity to meet interesting people and share in a fun gaming experience.

Most people have heard of the game of craps, but that’s part of the reason why it’s not considered to be one of the popular casino games like slots.  Craps has a reputation of being a difficult and complicated game to learn, which is unfortunate, because it is, like roulette, a pretty straight-forward game.  You only need to decide whether to bet against or with the shooter; the shooter being the one throwing the dice.  Certain rules apply to the outcome of the shooter’s toss and your fate in the game is, for better or worse, tied to the shooter’s wins and losses.  Like baccarat, craps can be a great social game, and has the potential to be counted among the other very popular casino games, but with the excitement of blackjack or slots.

 

Online Casino Games – Choosing the Right One for You

Online Casino GamesWhen a beginner sets out to play online casino games, they don’t always know what they’re doing, or even which game they should start playing. Identifying the casino game that might best suit their tastes requires a level of knowledge and experience that a newcomer to online casinos often lacks. Not knowing which game to choose can lead to an unsatisfying gaming experience, and since a good percentage of these players may not be willing to give the casino a second try after this kind of disappointment, this guide will help make the selection process easier. Below, you’ll be introduced to several key factors that will hopefully have a positive impact on the decision making process.

Online Casino Games Risk-Reward Ratio

There are pros and cons for any game. For instance, every game has a different risk-reward ratio. Some of them even feature multiple bets with different levels of risk within the same game. How you pick these games will be a stylistic decision you’ll need to consider before making your selection. Consider, roulette, a game where evens bets are low risk and low reward. Alternatively, straight-up bets have a much greater degree of risk and a relatively high level of reward. Slots games are similar in that the ones with big jackpots have a higher volatility as opposed to the smaller jackpot slots that are considered low-volatility.

Learning Online Casino Games

The next decision you’ll be faced with is how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in learning how to play the game. In order to become even moderately proficient at a game like craps or blackjack, you’ll need to devote a fair amount of time to studying the games and practicing your newly-developed skills playing for fun before you’ll want to risk your bankroll. On the other end of the spectrum are games like keno and slots. These online casino games don’t require any special skills or strategies; you can simply start playing right away. So why would you ever choose a game that requires study and practice over a simple game? Well, it would depend on your reason for playing in the first place. If you’re looking for a really big payoff, then you’re better off sticking with the skill-based games because they have higher payout percentages. If your focus is more on pure entertainment, then you should stick to the less volatile games like roulette or slots. You can still win playing these games, the amounts you win will just be smaller.

Modern vs Classic Online Casino Games

One last factor to consider is based on whether you prefer modern over classic. If you’re drawn to a classic casino atmosphere, then you’re likely to experience greater enjoyment playing one of the table games like blackjack or craps. However, if you like a little more sizzle when it comes to your casino experience, and flashy lights and sounds appeal to you, then you’re probably better suited to play slots, keno, and other parlor games. Any one of the online casino games you’ll find at an online casino can provide countless hours of enjoyment and the chance to take home big winnings, which one you choose is simply a matter of personal taste and risk tolerance level. You also don’t have to choose one over the other exclusively; you can always play different types depending on your mood and the size of your bankroll.

Land-Based Casinos vs Online Casinos – The Main Differences

Land Based CasinosAlthough it may be argued that nothing can truly compare to the actual sights and sounds of the land-based casinos experience, it could be debated at least that both of these enterprises share some common qualities and each has its own high and low points.  For example, both online casinos and their land-based counterparts offer players the opportunity to place real money bets.  Each one also offers a wide selection of games including blackjack, slots, craps and video poker.  That being said, there are some major differences.

A select number of online casinos feature live dealers who interact with the players via webcam.  However, it’s much more common that the “dealer” is computer generated, and the outcome of the games are determined by a random number generator.  The upside is that it allows for faster play.  Depending on the software, you can play in excess of 1000 hands of blackjack an hour using the auto-play feature based on optimal strategy.  You can also review previous hands and outcomes.  Random number generators guarantee fair play and third party auditors ensure that the games are tested regularly.  The results of these audits are often made available to the public via the casino’s website.

Financial transactions are handled differently at an online casino.  At land-based casinos there is a cashier located within the casino where you can easily purchase or cash in your winnings. Depositing and withdrawing funds to and from an online casino may require the use of a third party payment processing service known as e-wallets.  Deposits are usually instantaneous but withdrawals generally take longer and it might take several days for the funds to be credited to a player’s e-walled account.  The reason for this is that the casino must first perform standard anti-fraud procedures and allow for reversals, which allow you to terminate your withdrawal request and transfer the funds back into your casino account.

Land-Based Casinos Comps vs Online Casino Comps

The comps that land-based casinos are famous for obviously don’t translate to the online casino experience.  Rather than providing players with free meals or upgrade to their rooms, online casinos offer financial rewards based on the amount of play generated.  These bonuses can include free spins, or match bonuses, which will match a deposit dollar-for-dollar up to a specified amount.  Players are often required to bet a certain number of times before any winnings can be cashed out.

Of course, land-based casinos are more than just the games, there’s also the atmosphere to consider and this is one of the main differences between online and real-world gambling.  Land-based casinos have sights and sounds that can’t be replicated online.  In land-based casinos friends and loved ones can cheer you on or you can take a break to see a show.  Online casinos can’t rival this experience but they do feature incredible graphics without any unnecessary distractions.  They are a convenient, entertaining, and potentially lucrative way to play from the comfort of home.

Online Casino Blackjack – Winning Strategies

Online Casino BlackjackSome of the best odds available in any casino can be found at the online casino blackjack tables. Players that understand the basic elements of the game can thrive. Players whose combined winnings outweigh their loses combine a knowledge of statistics and counting cards to transform a classic game of skill and chance into a profitable and highly entertaining endeavor.

In addition to consistent practice and dedication to playing online casino blackjack, players can increase their chances of winning by following strategies and taking advice from seasoned online casino blackjack professionals. By following the eight steps below you with be that much closer to big winnings.

1. Develop Your Basic Online Casino Blackjack Strategy

If you’ve spend time wandering through the casino gift shops you’ve likely seen strategy cards for sale. Thanks to the internet you don’t need to spend the time or money to acquire this kind of information; it’s readily available online, for free. Take some time to look around and with a little research you’re sure to find a suitable one from any number of reputable sources.

Commit the information on the card to memory. These strategy charts indicate the best possible play, mathematically speaking for any online casino blackjack scenario. Look at the combination of your total points versus the dealer’s up card, and the strategy chart will identify the move that will give you the best odds to win.

2. Don’t be a Sucker

It’s a good idea to develop your personal betting style. This involves determining how much money you can afford to wager  and when you should increase and decrease your online casino blackjack bets. Ignore any betting strategies that involve past performance such as the ones that you might receive as email spam or on online gambling forums. These strategies promise that you’ll never lose if you’re increasing or decreasing the amount of your bets based on wins or loses. You’ll be much better served if you avoid any betting strategy that defies the laws of math. Cards can’t tell if you’ve lost or won a hand so basing you wagers on previous wins or loses is risky.

However, providing you know how to count cards, you’d be increasing and decreasing your wagers based on an actual advantage. Your potential win/loss rate will be directly affected by your wagering strategy.

3. Understand the Basic Rules of the Game

Unless you’re just watching the action, don’t approach the online casino blackjack tables without a sound understanding of the basic rules of the game. Occasionally a blackjack game might have slight variations in the rules that can affect the outcome of the game. Spend the time familiarizing yourself with the most common rule variations and you’re much more likely to walk away a winner.

For example, some blackjack games have a 6:5 payout on 21 rather than a 3:2 payout, which is more common. A 6:5 payout works in favor of the casino so you’ll want to avoid it whenever possible.

4. Be Confident!

Confidence is a must when it comes to making important life decisions and this includes wagering at online casino blackjack. Blackjack dealers must abide by a strict set of rules, but as a player you’re not subject to these rules, which can be advantageous. This advantage should boost your confidence and lead to sounder decision-making.

5. Learn to Count Cards

Contrary to popular belief, card counting is perfectly legal and it is the optimal way to get a big leg up on the casino. Online casino blackjack card counting is no easy feat; it requires a great deal of dedication and practice. It transforms the game into one of positive expectations and gives the player a distinct advantage over the House.

So what does it mean exactly to count cards? Simply put, card counting is just a method used to determine how much or little one should wager on a given hand. Savvy card counters are able to keep track of how many of the different-valued cards are remaining in the shoe and how many cards have been played, and then place their bets according to the balance of the shoe. Some professional card counters suggest that practically anybody has the potential to acquire basic card counting skills and put them into practice at tables with even just 40 hours of training/practice. These 40 hours can translate into big bucks.

6. Do Your Research

When doing your research, make sure that you’re utilizing reliable sources. Don’t waste your money on eBooks or other cheap strategy schemes. The information they contain isn’t always reliable and any valuable tips they might contain can usually be found online, for free.

Two well-regarded books that are worth reading are: J. Philip Vogel’s Blackjack: The Real Deal and Stanford Wong’s Blackjack Secrets. Both of the authors are professional online casino blackjack players and their books are offer many helpful insights for beginners and those who have a basic understanding of the game but are looking to improve on their skills.

7. Stay Away From the Alcohol

A common strategy that casinos employ in order to disadvantage players is to ply them with free drinks. They know that too much alcohol can affect a player’s instincts and the quality of their decision making. Online gamblers are not immune to temptation either, especially if they have easy access to a liquor cabinet.

You’ll always have the option of celebrating your wins once your session is over. Stay alert, and if you really feel the need for a drink, step away from the table.

8. Mind Your Bankroll

If you prepare a bankroll strategy ahead of time you’ll have a much better idea of when to quit playing. Set aside a fixed amount of money for gambling, and once you hit your limit for wins and losses, take a break from the tables. Gambling involves a series of highs and lows so make the necessary allowances to adjust for these fluctuations. But be sure to stick to your limits in order to stay on track.

Online casino blackjack players who follow all eight of the tips presented here are likely to find themselves winning more often. There’s a significant advantage to be had by those who learn basic blackjack strategy and maintain a consistent card count in their heads, so follow these guidelines make your time at the blackjack table more profitable.

Sheldon Adelson’s Campaign Against Online Casino Gambling

Sheldon Adelson Opposes Online Casino Gambling

Last fall, when Sheldon Adelson first began waging his war against legalized online gambling within the United States many people found his stance confusing and profoundly misguided. After all, with the exception of Sheldon Adelson, the gambling industry unilaterally supported the notion of gambling being extended to include Internet-based gaming. Adelson’s position in this matter was is further confounded due to the fact that it comes from a man who amassed a substantial fortune from land-based gambling operations.

Surprisingly, just 6 months later, Sheldon Adelson has managed to make serious inroads in blocking the legalization of gambling. In late 2013, supporters of online gambling made considerable headway with states such as New Jersey, Nevada and Delaware offering regulated Internet gambling within their borders. It was expected that the huge revenues and tax income generated post-launch would serve as a massive incentive for other states to follow suit. However, by June, efforts in California and other key states stalled and although Sheldon Adelson is no closer to bringing about a federal ban on online gambling, they have similarly failed in creating a regulatory plan for online gambling on a federal level.

Sheldon Adelson has wasted no time capitalizing on his momentum. According to the Wall Street Journal, Sheldon Adelson has been successful in persuading the casino industry’s most influential lobbying group, the American Gaming Association (AMA), to cease supporting efforts to regulate online gambling. Prior to this, the AGA’s actively supported online gambling from as early as March 2010. This support created a major rift among the most important members of the group. Insiders suggested the change not only curtailed the AGA’s impact in Washington, but also negatively impacted plans to support regulation of online gambling at a state level.

Sheldon Adelson seeks help from prominent casino operators

Sheldon Adelson has also enlisted other prominent casino operators like Steve Wynn and former politicians like George Pataki to lend their support to his cause. Recently he has enlisted the support of Democrat and former mayor of San Francisco, Willie Brown to oppose online gambling in California. It doesn’t help matters when the casino revenues being generated in New Jersey have fallen substantially below expectations. This disappointing fact will potentially discourage other states from embracing online gambling as a means to solving budget concerns. In April, New Jersey revenues dropped to $11.4M, a far cry from the $180M predicted by Governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie. What’s the reason behind this great disparity? According to the president of France’s Internet gambling regulator, Charles, Coppolani, “The fad is over.” The advancement of regulated online gambling in California also seems to be lagging due to competition with tribal casinos, many of which have opposing interests.

While Adelson isn’t entirely responsible for the recent setbacks, he has managed to turn the tables to a certain degree. He’s put online gambling proponents on the defence and has been a catalyst for increased public debate on the key issues associated with online gambling such as underage gambling, cheating and addiction (all of which are factors that apply equally to the land-based casino he operates). Even investors seems to have lost their enthusiasm. Caesars Acquisition Company, a subsidiary of Caesars Entertainment, has experienced a 26% drop in stock since March, trading at $12.08.