With numbers like those, American firms have taken notice and become involved in everything from software development to actually taking bets, but have generally turned a blind eye to the fact that gambling is illegal under state and federal law. Total revenue for year 2000 from online gaming sites has been estimated at $1.5 billion, and is expected to grow to $5 billion by 2003. Based on recent estimates, over 1,400 Internet gambling sites exist on the Web, with a total of 14.5 million users placing bets. In a stunning example of technology outpacing the law, the online casino gambling business has grown exponentially during the last few years, despite significant legal uncertainties.
