Online betting is when you place wagers at an internet sportsbook with a computer or mobile device. Those bets can be placed for money or simply for fun, but it’s important to gamble responsibly and only use sites that have been licensed and regulated by a state gaming commission.
In the US, online gambling sites have to comply with local gambling laws and use industry-standard encryption to keep your personal and financial information secure. This helps prevent fraudulent activity and ensures that your bets are honored, and your funds are safe. The best sites also have transparent privacy policies and support responsible gambling.
To start gambling online, you need to sign up for an account with a site that accepts your preferred payment method. This can include Visa, MasterCard or American Express cards, as well as e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill. Some sites even have their own branded Play+ cards, which let you deposit and withdraw cash in participating stores.
The best online betting sites offer a variety of banking options and have mobile apps to make it easy to place wagers on the go. Many of them also allow you to bet with Bitcoin.
New York legalized sports betting in 2019 with retail options at its commercial and tribal casinos, followed by an online launch later that year. DraftKings and FanDuel were among the first to roll out, with BetMGM and PointsBet joining in 2022. WynnBET is a newcomer to the scene, launching in 2020 after parent company Wynn Resorts bought a European bookmaker. Its streamlined platform covers less sports and offers fewer banking options, but it has a unique user experience and a great welcome bonus.