Online Gambling involves playing games of chance or skill using a computer, mobile phone, tablet or other connected device. It works by connecting players to a centralised betting system where they can choose which bets to place and how much money they want to wager. Once they have placed a bet, their winnings are then automatically transferred to their account. In order to participate, players must have three things: a computer or mobile device with access to the internet, an account with a gambling website and money to make bets.

This type of gambling has gained popularity because it allows people to play their favorite casino games at home or on the go. It also offers a variety of bonuses and incentives to attract players. However, it is important for people to know the risks and benefits of online gambling before they start playing.

The main risk associated with online gambling is that it can lead to addiction and serious harms. This can include financial stress, relationship breakdown, family violence and mental illness. Prevention strategies can reduce the impact of gambling on individuals and communities. They can include universal pre-commitment to require gamblers to set binding losses limits and self-exclusion.

Other risks include the proliferation of gambling products, which are often disproportionately located in areas with higher levels of disadvantage. This is driven by a range of mechanisms including sponsorship or other association with popular sporting leagues and aggressive promotion in social media. Compliance is the key to reducing these risks, with requirements for advertisements to be truthful and not misleading and with promotions to avoid targeting persons underage.