Online gambling encompasses any form of wagering conducted via the Internet, such as virtual poker, casinos and sports betting. Online gambling has been available in certain states since the 1990s when the first legal internet casino opened for business. Since then, more sites have opened offering real money gaming. Some even feature live dealer games where players interact directly with dealers and other players – although New York remains unregulated yet can still gamble online at various websites.

New Yorkers typically view gambling as a relaxing leisure pastime that provides social interaction and entertainment, but for some gamblers it can turn into serious personal and financial consequences. To help those experiencing problem gambling in their state, New York has several services and support available; such as the New York Council on Problem Gambling which offers advice and links to local resources as well as voluntary self-exclusion schemes where gamblers register to limit their gambling activity for set periods of time.

Since January 2022, sports betting is legal in New York state and governed by the NY State Gaming Commission. Seven licensed land-based casinos accept sports bets; fans of specific teams or players can wager in fantasy leagues located throughout New York State as well. Lotteries remain popular forms of gambling while Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) continue to gain momentum within New York.

While state lawmakers have discussed legalizing online casinos in New York State, nothing has happened yet. They may be waiting until three downstate casinos open before giving approval; or perhaps they fear online casino operations competing directly with land-based casinos would cause tax revenue losses from new sites to the state government.

Most online casinos provide apps and websites for smartphones and tablets to download; others also allow access via mobile browsers. Apps typically allow users to play various casino games ranging from slots to table games; many also provide bonuses and reward programs designed to keep customers engaged; some even feature virtual reality software which lets them “look around” a casino room before engaging with human dealers to play casino games!

New York has stringent anti-money laundering and terrorism financing laws that are designed to prevent misuse of casino funds. Gamers must choose an established, reputable online casino which uses encryption for protection, as well as third-party auditors who conduct fairness testing to make sure games are fair. Furthermore, winnings from gambling should be reported and taxed just like other forms of income so keep track of both wins and losses when making an income claim with the IRS.