📜 Early Development of Online Casinos (1990s)
- 1994: The first online casino, InterCasino, is launched in Antigua and Barbuda, marking the beginning of internet gambling.
- 1996: The popularity of online gambling begins to rise, with multiple casinos being established.
- 1999: The introduction of secure payment methods, increasing trust in online gambling.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1994 | Launch of InterCasino |
| 1996 | First wave of online casinos |
| 1999 | Secure payment systems introduced |
🌍 Expansion and Regulation (2000s)
- 2001: The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) is introduced in the USA, impacting online casinos.
- 2006: Major changes in legislation and regulation are initiated in various countries.
- 2008: The first online poker tournaments offer substantial cash prizes, boosting interest.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2001 | UIGEA introduced |
| 2006 | New regulations enacted |
| 2008 | Major poker tournaments gain popularity |
📈 Modern Era of Online Casinos (2010s – Present)
- 2010: Mobile gambling applications start to emerge, paving the way for gaming on-the-go.
- 2013: Several US states begin legalizing online gambling, setting a precedent for other jurisdictions.
- 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic leads to a surge in online casino usage, with many players moving from physical casinos.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2010 | Rise of mobile gaming |
| 2013 | Legalization in several states |
| 2020 | COVID-19 drives online casino growth |
