The best way to protect yourself from fraudulent sportsbooks is to play on a reputable online sportsbook. Look for sportsbooks that are licensed in a reputable jurisdiction and have a proven track record of protecting consumer information. A sportsbook that offers a money back guarantee is a good option. If you’re still not sure if a sportsbook is legit, you can test it out by signing up with a legit option.

While many countries have passed gambling laws, some states have not yet legalized online sports betting. Despite this, a few states have already legalized online sports betting. For example, Nevada was one of the first US states to legalize online sports betting. It launched the sports betting market on Sept. 9, and seven apps were available on its first day. Two sportsbooks were also opened in Phoenix-area stadiums. Betting online has a long way to go, but the first steps have been taken.

While research is still inconclusive, some findings suggest that problematic online bettors are more likely to consider themselves as professional or semi-professional gamblers. However, this may be a misguided rationalization, and in many cases, self-identification as a professional gambler does not necessarily prevent problem gambling. Researchers argue that the prevalence of problem gambling among those who consider themselves as professional or semi-professional gamblers is a result of the inherent difficulties of self-assessing skill based on betting returns.