Caught In The Internet Gambling Web

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Internet gambling is a 24 hr, always on service. For problem gamblers the web can be a nightmare. With the advent of online gaming, along came the spectre of the addicted gambler sitting in the front-room in front of the PC, helpless against the grind of the house edge. Dazzled by the virtual spinning slot reels. Baffled by the endless bonus offerings, apparently for use in evaluating the casino games, as long as they are slots, not blackjack, craps, baccarat or other games with such arguably low house edges.

In a nanny state world, where England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales are banning smoking in public. Is it so far-fetched to imagine an American led all out ban on internet gambling, to protect the gambling problem inclined member of society?

Caught In The Internet Gambling Web (excerpt)
There was no boundary between me and what was going on inside the computer screen," said the recovering gambling addict, who asked not to be identified. "I was ill with a compulsion, even though I was losing $5,000 and $10,000 and $15,000."

Gambling has been around for centuries, from gruff Wild West saloons to glitzy Las Vegas casinos. But the Internet has taken this age-old game of chance to a new plane -- allowing anyone to place bets, anytime, from anywhere.

Full Article - CNN.com - Caught in the gambling Web - Jul 20, 2006

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