As reported by Kinston Free Press:
To many North Carolinians, it won't matter whether the state approves a legal lottery any time soon. They already have plenty of opportunities to satisfy their gambling appetites on the Internet.
With an estimated 1,800 Internet gambling sites from which to choose, all one needs to wager on a multitude of casino games and sporting events is a computer, cash or a credit card to set up an account. All the thrills of a casino or sports arena can be had in the privacy of one's home, and gambling can take place any time of the day.
Whether addicted to gambling online or merely using it as an occasional diversion, players are nearly unanimous in their insistence to keep their identities anonymous. Their reluctance to "come out" could be attributed in part to the fact that online gambling is illegal, not only in North Carolina but also throughout the U.S. The pastime's legal status, however, doesn't seem to lessen player enthusiasm.
"I think it's great," said Steve of Kinston. "I just use the Internet for fun to bet on a few football games each year. I'm not a gambler. This year I made it through the whole season on $100."
Scott, another Kinston resident, isn't as thrilled with on-line gambling. He describes himself as a gambler who enjoys card games.
"I tried online gambling four or five years ago and didn't like it," he said. "I just didn't find it exciting. There was no atmosphere. I need to hear those bells."
From fun to compulsion
And Melanie, 47, a Gamblers Anonymous member from Raleigh, describes herself as the perfect example of an on-line compulsive gambler.
Her problems began about a year and a half ago, when she began gambling on several on-line poker sites. She started by betting $50 and found she really enjoyed the gambling.
