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Editorial: Illegal Gambling: Hope for the future
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So, you've probably seen a lot of news recently - particularly from the United States, but also from all over the world - about various illegal gambling activities. Given the history of gambling and its prohibition or strict regulation in so many places, it's fair to say that stories about folks 'circumventing' the law in these ares have been pretty common. Whether it's news about athletes or coaches and match fixing, illegal/underground poker games, unlawful casino operations, or even online casinos accepting players from jurisdictions where such activities are prohibited, the gambling industry has certainly had its share of run-ins with the law and the press (and law enforcement officials!) love highlighting such occurrences as they happen.Such news shouldn't come as much surprise, however, considering the fact that so many forms of gambling remain under strict regulation or are prohibited altogether. Although demand for gambling may rise or fall depending on how accessible (and legal) such activities are, it's been just about impossible (no matter how much some anti-gambling regulators may wish to the contrary) to eliminate such demand altogehter. Accordingly, while many of us may be disappointed to learn that we're not allowed to play poker nearby our homes or make sports bets where we live, others will simply find other 'outlets' through which to act on their gambling habits.
The risk here of course is that turning to such options can be rather dangerous, as a lack of open competition for customers doesn't force establishments to adhere to the same quality and customer-first standards as their legal counterparts. As a result, scams abound and there's little recourse for customers in the event of fraud. Needless to say, 'unsavoury' or less 'crime-averse' individuals are often the ones behind such illegal operations, presenting a significant element of uncertainty and risk.
Gambling fans should be encouraged, however, to know that, despite many of the headlines, the global trend is actually moving in a more 'pro-gambling' direction. In the U.S., new casinos are sprouting up all of the time - even in states who's Senators/Congressman supported the UIGEA - and most folks think it's just a matter of time before online gambling is regulated properly there and made available legally to Americans. In Europe, the European Commission has taken a fairly pro-gambling stance towards providers of online gambling services in the EU and, although there continues to be hiccups along the way, again, the trend is moving away from prohibition and towards greater availability. All in all, more competition amongst gambling operators is a great thing for gambling fans and potential customers - the more alternatives that exist, the greater the incentive for enhanced quality standards and safer environments. So, if you're ever disheartened by some of the headlines you see on illegal gambling activities, take heart - slowly but surely the environment for gambling is actually becoming friendlier, not seedier!
31-Jan-2010, 21:02
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