Online Gambling; Why has it got popular?

Understand how online gambling started and why it is now the biggest internet business.

14:20 06 February 2013

The internet has indeed changed our lives. There are now a lot of things that we can do with just a few clicks of our mouse. We can now shop, socialize, and even gamble in the comforts of our home.

Online gambling has been around for years and it offers players the capability to play without leaving their house. Anyone who has a credit card and who is 18 years old and above can place bets on sporting events or join virtual casino to play slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, etc.

Online gambling started gaining popularity in the late 1990s. From around 15 gambling sites in 1996, these websites were thought to have increased to 200 in 1997. A report released in 1998 revealed that online gambling revenues have exceeded $830million in 1998 alone with sites like 12joker thai since creating international appeal.

Online poker rooms, which are some of the most popular online games were introduced in 1998. By 1999, multiplayer online gambling was launched. With this, players have the capability to gamble, interact, and chat with each other in an interactive environment.

Due to its increasing popularity and ability to attract more players every year, internet gambling has arguably become one of the most lucrative businesses online. In 2007, the UK Gambling Commission revealed that the industry earned over £84billion.