Age Limits for Online Gambling

February 28, 2009 | Article Category: Gaming Law

0 Comments

How Old Should I Be?

Although online casino games might be a "fun way" for younger people to spend their time, there are clearly defined acceptable age limits depending on the online casino. The generally accepted age limits are usually either 18 or 21.

The online casinos that take social responsibility seriously do what they can to ensure that players are of an acceptable age before allowing them to play in their online casinos. The age limit will be posted on the reliable casino's website. The difference in the legal ages vary according to gambling locations.

Unfortunately, there are always those without consciences, and some locations are more than willing to allow, and even encourage, underage players to participate in online casinos. Although these online casinos can not and do not allow the underage players to play for real money, they will encourage any players to partake in free online casino games.

Although it might not be against the letter of the law for underage players to play free games, it is considered by most to be against the spirit of the law and to be somewhat unethical. Playing free online casino games is simply a precursor to playing the games for real money. This is the time when online casinos have the chance to "catch" new players. Trying to sell online gambling to underage players is certainly somewhat unethical.

It is, of course, difficult to tell potential players between the ages of 18 and 21, who would be accepted at some online casinos and not at others that they should not even play free games until such time as the reach the legal majority with regards to online casino gambling.

Apart from the question as to whether the practice is ethical or unethical, there are also players that hold the view that online casinos should not permit children, or any underage players to play even free games on the grounds that children and underage players simply do not have a place in the online casino world.

A number of online casinos make it clear, by stating quite clearly, that their sites do not accept or welcome underage players.

Online Gambling Winnings Cannot be Claimed by Minors

Players who misrepresent themselves and lie about their age in order to be accepted to play at an online casino should be aware that should they win, they will not be able to receive their winnings. Real prize money may not be paid to a minor or any other illegal player, even if they did in fact win the money. Players who are not allowed to play in their jurisdictions would fall into the category of other illegal players.

Imagine how disappointed an underage player would be if they had played a game that carried a large, or even a small, jackpot and won it. They would be unable to collect their winnings, and would not be able to do anything about it, except be very disappointed and frustrated!

Add a Comment

Name: * Email: (won't be published) * Website URL: Verify the image below: *

Tool Links

Mail Print     Digg Del.ici.ous