The federal government’s efforts to criminalize online gambling have been hampered by legal challenges to the Act. These attacks have focused on the Commerce Clause, the First Amendment’s guarantee of freedom of speech, and due process. While the Commerce Clause objection is easily satisfied by the commercial nature of the gambling industry, free speech objections have proven difficult to overcome. And when financial transactions involving money are involved, due process arguments also take a hit.

While gambling is largely a matter of state law, federal law often serves to reinforce state laws. This may be because states fear that the internet could be used to introduce illegal gambling into their jurisdictions. However, if you’re looking for a legal guide to online gambling, here are some things to consider.

Illegal Internet gambling violates seven federal laws. This includes the Wire Act and the Illegal Gambling Business Act, which prohibit gambling on sporting events and contests. Additionally, under the Travel Act, it is illegal to engage in illegal gambling on interstate commerce. In addition, illegal Internet gambling is also prohibited under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.