Online poker has become a popular pastime in the UK over the years. With the rise of technology, it has become easier than ever to play poker online from the comfort of your own home.
However, many people are unsure whether or not it is legal to play online poker in the UK. In this article, we will explore the legality of online poker in the UK and provide you with all the information you need to know.
Firstly, it is important to note that gambling in any form is regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). The UKGC was established under the Gambling Act 2005 and is responsible for regulating all forms of gambling in the UK. This includes both land-based and online gambling.
In terms of online poker, it is legal to play as long as you are playing on a site that is licensed by the UKGC. The UKGC only grants licenses to sites that meet certain criteria and are deemed safe and fair for players. If you are unsure whether or not a site is licensed by the UKGC, you can easily check by visiting their website.
It is also worth noting that players must be over 18 years old to play online poker in the UK. This age restriction applies to both land-based and online gambling.
One issue that some players may face when playing online poker is whether or not their bank will allow them to make deposits on gambling sites. While most banks do allow these types of transactions, some may block them due to their own policies or regulations.
If you are having trouble making deposits on a particular site, it may be worth checking with your bank first before contacting customer support at the poker site.
Overall, playing online poker in the UK is legal as long as you stick to licensed sites and follow all age restrictions. It’s important to always gamble responsibly and never spend more than you can afford to lose.
If you’re looking for some great sites where you can play online poker in the UK, here are a few options to consider:
1. PokerStars – one of the largest and most popular online poker sites in the world.
2. 888poker – a great option for players looking for a wide variety of games and tournaments.
3. partypoker – another popular site with a great selection of games and tournaments.
In conclusion, playing online poker in the UK is perfectly legal as long as you stick to licensed sites and follow all age restrictions. With so many great options out there, there’s no reason not to give it a try!
