Online gambling is a great way to enjoy your favorite casino games from the comfort of your own home. But before you start gambling online, it’s important to understand the basics. This FAQ will answer some of the most common questions about online gambling.
What are the laws around online gambling in the United States?
The legality of online gambling in the United States is a bit of a gray area. Federal law prohibits banks and financial institutions from processing transactions related to online gambling, but there is no specific law that bans online gambling outright. However, each state has its own laws regarding online gambling, so it is important to check the laws in your state before playing.
The federal laws that relate to online gambling are the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), the Wire Act, and the Illegal Gambling Business Act (IGBA).
The UIGEA prohibits financial institutions from processing payments for online gambling transactions. The Wire Act prohibits interstate wagering, and the IGBA prohibits gambling businesses from operating across state lines.
There are also a number of state laws that relate to online gambling. Some states have laws that prohibit online gambling, while other states have laws that allow it.
Are there any states that have legalized online gambling?
At the moment, there are no US states that have legalized online gambling. However, there are a number of states that have introduced legislation to legalize it, including New York, Michigan, Illinois, and California. There is also a great deal of momentum behind the legalization of online gambling, so it is likely that at least one or two states will legalize it in the near future.
Are there any risks associated with online gambling?
There are a few risks associated with online gambling, the most notable of which is the risk of losing money. Other risks include the risk of being scammed by a fraudulent site, the risk of malware infecting your computer, and the risk of getting addicted to gambling.
One of the biggest risks of online gambling is the risk of losing money. This is especially true if you are gambling with money that you cannot afford to lose. Gambling can be addictive, and if you get addicted, you may end up losing a lot of money.
Another risk of online gambling is the risk of being scammed by a fraudulent site. There are many fraudulent gambling sites on the internet, and it is important to do your research before choosing a site to gamble on. Make sure the site is reputable and has a good reputation.
Another risk of online gambling is the risk of getting malware on your computer. Malware can infect your computer and steal your personal information or damage your computer. Be sure to only gamble on sites that are safe and have a good security reputation.
Overall, there are a few risks associated with online gambling. However, if you are careful and do your research, you can minimize these risks and enjoy a safe and enjoyable gambling experience.
What are the benefits of online gambling?
Online gambling has a number of benefits over traditional gambling. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it is much more convenient. With online gambling, you can gamble from the comfort of your own home. There is no need to travel to a casino or to wait for a table to open up. You can also gamble any time of the day or night, whereas traditional gambling is typically only available during certain hours.
Another benefit of online gambling is that there is a much wider variety of games available. You can find virtually any type of gambling game online, from slots to blackjack to poker. There are also many different variations of each game. This gives you a much greater chance of finding a game that you will enjoy.
Online gambling is also typically much cheaper than traditional gambling. There are no travel costs, and you can often find better odds online. In addition, many online casinos offer free games, so you can practice before risking any real money.
Finally, online gambling is much safer than traditional gambling. There is no need to carry any cash around with you, and you can easily track your spending online. If you do experience any problems with an online casino, there are many resources available to help you resolve the issue.
Is online gambling legal?
This is a difficult question to answer with a simple yes or no, as the legality of online gambling varies from country to country. In some countries, such as the United States, online gambling is illegal, while in others it is fully regulated and licensed.
The legality of online gambling is also a topic of much debate. Supporters of online gambling argue that it is a perfectly safe and secure way to gamble, and that it should be legalised and regulated in order to protect consumers. Opponents of online gambling argue that it is a highly addictive and dangerous form of gambling, and that it should be illegalised in order to protect consumers.
So, is online gambling legal? The answer to this question is unfortunately not a simple yes or no. It depends on where you live, and whether online gambling is legal in that country.
What are the most popular online gambling games?
There is no one definitive answer to this question as it largely depends on personal preferences. However, some of the most popular online gambling games include slots, blackjack, roulette and poker.
Slots are incredibly popular due to their simplicity and the potential to win big payouts. Blackjack is a classic casino game that is still popular today, while roulette is a game of chance that can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Poker is a popular card game that can be enjoyed by both beginners and experts alike.
How do I start gambling online?
There are plenty of online casinos these days that offer a wide range of games and betting options. So, how do you decide which one to sign up with?
First, take a look at the casino’s licensing and regulation. This information can be found on the casino’s website, and it should be displayed prominently. Reputable casinos will have licenses from respected gaming authorities.
Next, take a look at the casino’s game selection. Make sure the games you’re interested in are offered, and that the software provider is reputable.
Finally, check out the casino’s banking options. Make sure they offer a wide range of payment methods, and that the processing times are reasonable.
Once you’ve found a casino that you’re happy with, sign up and claim your welcome bonus. Make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully, as there may be wagering requirements attached.
How old do you have to be to gamble online?
The legal age to gamble in most jurisdictions is 18 or older, but this age requirement does not necessarily apply to gambling online.
Some countries, such as the United Kingdom, have specific laws that govern online gambling, while other countries, like the United States, do not have any laws that specifically address online gambling. In general, the legal age to gamble online is the same as the legal age to gamble in person.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, in some jurisdictions, the legal age to gamble online may be younger than 18. Additionally, some online casinos may set their own age requirements, which may be higher than the legal age in the jurisdiction in which the casino is located.
So, what is the answer to the question? The legal age to gamble online is the same as the legal age to gamble in person, unless the jurisdiction in which the casino is located has different age requirements.
What are the odds of winning at gambling?
This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on the type of gambling game, the odds of the game, and the amount of money you are gambling. However, some general estimates can be made.
For example, the odds of winning at blackjack are about 1 in 3. So, if you are playing blackjack and bet $10, your expected value is $3.50 (i.e., you will lose $6.50 on average, but win $10 once for every three times you play). The odds of winning at roulette are about 1 in 37 (for American roulette). So, if you are playing roulette and bet $1 on red, your expected value is -$0.027 (i.e., you will lose $0.027 on average for every dollar you bet).
It is important to note that the expected value is different from the probability of winning. The expected value is what you can expect to win (or lose) on average if you play the game a large number of times. The probability of winning is the likelihood of winning on any given bet.
So, what are the odds of winning at gambling? It depends on the game. But, in general, the odds are about 1 in 3 for blackjack and 1 in 37 for roulette.
What is a payout percentage?
A payout percentage is the percentage of money returned to players in winnings. For example, a payout percentage of 95% means that for every $100 gambled, players can expect to receive $95 in winnings.
What are the different types of gambling?
There are many different types of gambling, but the most common are casino games, lotteries, and sports betting.
Casino games are games of chance that are typically played with cards or dice. The most popular casino games are blackjack, craps, roulette, and slot machines.
Lotteries are games where players purchase tickets with predetermined numbers, and the winners are chosen based on the drawn numbers. The most popular lottery games are Powerball and Mega Millions.
Sports betting is the wagering of money on the outcome of a sporting event. The most popular sports to bet on are football, basketball, and baseball.
What type of gambling is best?
Some people may prefer the excitement and unpredictability of slots or roulette, while others may prefer the challenge of poker or blackjack. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to find the type of gambling that they enjoy the most and that provides the most excitement.
There are a few different types of gambling that are generally considered to be the most popular. These include online gambling, casino gambling, and sports betting. Each of these types of gambling has its own unique set of pros and cons, and it is important to understand these before deciding which type of gambling is best for you.
Online gambling is a popular choice for many people because it offers a variety of games and betting options. There are online casinos that offer every type of game imaginable, from slots and roulette to blackjack and poker. There are also a variety of betting options available, including sports betting, horse racing, and casino games. The downside to online gambling is that there is a risk of becoming addicted to it, and there is also the potential for scams.
Casino gambling is another popular choice, and casinos can be found in most major cities. Casino gambling offers a variety of games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker. There is also often a wide variety of betting options, including sports betting, horse racing, and casino games. The downside to casino gambling is that it can be expensive, and there is a risk of losing money.
Sports betting is a popular choice for many people because it offers the opportunity to win large sums of money. Sports betting can be done online or at a physical bookmaker. There are a variety of sports that can be bet on, including football, horse racing, and golf. The downside to sports betting is that it can be addictive, and there is a risk of losing money.
What should you know before you start gambling?
Gambling is a great way to have some fun and potentially make some money. However, there are a few things you should know before you start gambling.
First, it’s important to understand the different types of gambling. There are three basic types of gambling: casino games, lotteries, and sports betting. Casino games include things like blackjack, roulette, and craps. Lotteries include games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Sports betting includes bets on things like the outcome of a football game or the winner of the Super Bowl.
Second, it’s important to understand the odds. The odds are the percentage of the time that a particular event will happen. For example, the odds of flipping a coin and getting heads are 50%. This means that if you flip a coin 100 times, you’ll get heads 50 times.
Third, it’s important to know your bankroll. Your bankroll is the amount of money you’re willing to risk on a particular bet. It’s important to stay within your bankroll, especially when you’re just starting out.
Fourth, it’s important to find a reputable casino or betting site. There are a lot of scams out there, so it’s important to do your research before you start gambling.
How do I stay safe when gambling?
Gambling can be a fun and exciting experience, but it’s important to stay safe while you’re playing. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while gambling:
1. Only gamble with money that you can afford to lose.
2. Don’t drink or take drugs before gambling.
3. Gamble responsibly. Don’t let gambling become a problem.
4. Don’t share your personal information with strangers.
5. Keep your computer safe by using anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
6. Make sure you know the rules of the game before you start playing.
7. Don’t get carried away. Pace yourself and take breaks.
8. Stay focused and alert. Don’t let yourself get distracted.
9. Don’t gamble if you’re feeling stressed or upset.
10. Play for fun, not to make money.
What are the signs of gambling addiction?
Addiction is a complex disease that affects the brain, body, and emotions. When someone is addicted to gambling, they are unable to control their need to gamble, even if it means risking money, relationships, work, or school. Gambling addiction has many signs and symptoms, which can vary from person to person.
Some common signs of gambling addiction include:
-Gambling more money than you can afford -Lying to cover up your gambling habit -Feeling anxious or stressed when you can’t gamble -Feeling a need to gamble more and more to get the same feeling -Hiding your gambling from family and friends -Gambling even when you know you can’t afford to -Having problems at work or school because of your gambling -Spending less time with friends and family to gamble -Feeling depressed, anxious, or suicidal because of your gambling
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it is important to seek help. There are many resources available, including addiction treatment centers, support groups, and therapists.
How can you get help if you have a gambling addiction?
If you feel like you have a gambling addiction and you need help, there are a few different things you can do.
The first step is to talk to someone who can help. You can talk to a friend, family member, therapist, or any other support system you have. They can help you to figure out the next step to take.
Another step is to seek out professional help. There are many different types of treatment programs for gambling addiction, and you can find one that is right for you.
Finally, you can also join a support group for people with gambling addiction. This can be a great way to connect with others who are going through the same thing and to get support.
What are the most common mistakes people make in gambling?
There are many mistakes people make when gambling, but some of the most common include:
-Gambling when you can’t afford to lose: This is a recipe for disaster. If you’re not in a position to lose the money, don’t gamble it.
-Gambling with money you need for other things: This is another mistake that can lead to financial disaster. If you need the money for rent, groceries, or bills, don’t gamble it.
-Gambling when you’re drunk or high: This is a terrible idea and can lead to disastrous consequences.
-Gambling for entertainment purposes only: Don’t gamble with the expectation of making money. Gamble for the love of the game and the thrill of the gamble, not to make money.
-Not knowing when to walk away: Know your limits and when to quit. Don’t let greed get the best of you and end up losing more money than you can afford.
-Not studying the odds: If you’re not familiar with the odds, you’re at a disadvantage. Make sure you understand the odds before you place a bet.
-Not having a betting plan: If you don’t have a plan, you’re likely to make poor decisions while gambling. Come up with a plan before you start gambling and stick to it.
-Not being aware of the dangers of gambling: Gambling can be addictive and lead to financial ruin. Be aware of the dangers before you start gambling.
How do I pay for my gambling?
Most casinos accept a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, wire transfers, and e-wallets. Before you begin gambling, be sure to familiarize yourself with the payment options accepted by the casino you’re playing at.
When making a payment, be sure to enter your information correctly. If you enter the wrong information, you may not be able to receive your winnings. In addition, be sure to keep your payment information confidential. If someone gains access to your payment information, they may be able to withdraw money from your account without your permission.
If you’re having trouble making a payment, or if you have any questions about payment methods, be sure to contact the casino’s customer service department.
How do I know if my gambling is a problem?
The only way to answer this question is to take a close look at your own gambling behavior. Do you have difficulty resisting the urge to gamble? Do you gamble even when you know you can’t afford to lose? Do you feel like you need to gamble to feel good or to escape problems or stress in your life? Do you feel like you’re addicted to gambling?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may have a gambling problem. The good news is that there is help available. Professional treatment can help you address the root causes of your gambling addiction and learn how to manage your gambling behaviors.
How do I find help if I think I might have a gambling problem?
If you think you might have a gambling problem, there are a number of ways to seek help. The first step is to talk to someone who understands gambling problems and can provide you with resources and advice. You can talk to a friend, family member, or therapist. There are also a number of helplines available that can provide you with information and support.
The National Gambling Helpline is a free, confidential helpline available 24/7. You can call the helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or chat with a counselor online. The helpline can provide you with information on how to get help for your gambling problem, resources in your area, and advice on how to manage your gambling.
There are also a number of local helplines available in different states. You can find a list of local helplines on the National Gambling Helpline website.
How do I get over a gambling addiction?
There’s no simple answer, but there are a few things that might help.
First, it’s important to understand that gambling addiction is a real and serious problem. If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
There are a number of different treatments available for gambling addiction, including therapy, medication, and self-help groups.
If you’re looking for help dealing with your gambling addiction, there are a number of resources available online and in your community.
The most important thing is to get help and to keep trying different treatments until you find something that works for you.
How do I prevent gambling addiction in my loved ones?
The first step is to be aware of the signs of gambling addiction. If you suspect someone you love is addicted to gambling, look for these signs:
• They spend a lot of time gambling, often neglecting other activities or responsibilities
• They become defensive or secretive about their gambling
• They experience mood swings or changes in behavior when they’re not gambling
• They have financial problems as a result of gambling
• They lie about their gambling or try to hide it from others
If you see these signs in someone you love, it’s important to talk to them about your concerns and offer help. You may need to seek professional help for your loved one if the addiction is severe. There are many resources available to help people overcome gambling addiction, including therapy, support groups, and medication.
If you’re worried about your own gambling addiction, it’s important to get help before it becomes too severe. There are many resources available to help people overcome gambling addiction, including therapy, support groups, and medication.
How do I deal with financial problems caused by gambling?
If you find yourself in financial trouble because of your gambling, there are a few things you can do to get back on track.
The first step is to stop gambling immediately. This may seem like an impossible task, but it is essential if you want to get your finances back under control. Cutting back on your gambling budget is also a good idea. If you can’t afford to gamble as much as you used to, try to find other ways to entertain yourself.
It is also important to create a budget and stick to it. Make a list of all of your expenses and income, and try to make sure your expenses are less than your income. If you find that you are consistently spending more than you earn, you will need to make some changes.
You may also want to consider getting help from a financial advisor or credit counseling service. These professionals can help you develop a plan to get your finances back on track.
If you are struggling with a gambling addiction, it is important to get help. There are many organizations that can provide support and counseling. Gambling addiction can be a difficult problem to overcome, but with the right help, you can get your life back on track.
What are the legal consequences of gambling addiction?
Gambling addiction can have a number of legal consequences, both for the addict and for those around him or her.
For the addict, gambling addiction can lead to criminal charges for crimes such as theft or fraud in order to finance the addiction. Gambling addiction can also lead to financial problems, as the addict may spend all of his or her money on gambling. This can lead to debt and even bankruptcy.
For those around the addict, gambling addiction can also lead to legal problems. For example, if the addict spends all of his or her money on gambling, the spouse or children may not have enough money to live on. This can lead to a lawsuit against the addict. Additionally, if the addict commits a crime in order to finance the addiction, the victim of that crime may sue the addict.
Is online gambling safe?
When it comes to the safety of online gambling, there is no one definitive answer. However, there are a few things to watch out for to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
First and foremost, it is important to only gamble with reputable and licensed operators. Checking reviews and doing some research before signing up is a good way to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable site.
Secondly, it is important to keep track of your spending and always gamble responsibly. Gambling should be enjoyable and not cause financial problems.
Finally, it is important to keep your personal information safe. Be sure to use strong passwords and never share your login details with anyone else.
Overall, online gambling can be a safe and enjoyable experience if you take a few precautions. By choosing a reputable and licensed site, gambling responsibly and keeping your personal information safe, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable online gambling experience.
What should I do if I feel like I’m being scammed?
If you feel like you’re being scammed, or if you just don’t feel safe, stop gambling and contact customer support. There are a lot of scams out there, and you don’t want to get taken advantage of.
How many gambling sites can I use?
However, in most cases you will be able to use multiple gambling sites, as long as you are not breaking any laws.
In general, most countries only allow licensed gambling sites to operate within their borders. This means that you will usually need to use a site that is licensed in your country. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, the United Kingdom allows residents to use any gambling site, as long as it is licensed in another country.
If you are unsure about whether or not you are allowed to use a specific gambling site, you should contact your local authorities for clarification.
Can I use more than one gambling site?
Yes, you can use more than one gambling site. In fact, using multiple gambling sites can actually be a smart move, as it can help you compare bonuses, games, and other features to find the site that’s best for you. Just be sure to stick to reputable sites, as there are some shady operators out there.
What are the benefits of using multiple gambling sites?
There are a few key benefits to using multiple gambling sites:
1. You can find the best odds. Each gambling site offers different odds on different games, so by using multiple sites, you can ensure you are getting the best possible odds on the games you are playing.
2. You can find the best bonuses. Again, each site offers different bonuses, so by using multiple sites, you can ensure you are getting the best bonuses available. This can include sign-up bonuses, reload bonuses, and even free bets.
3. You can find the best games. Not all gambling sites offer the same games, so by using multiple sites, you can ensure you are playing the games you want to play.
4. You can find the best customer support. Not all gambling sites offer the same level of customer support, so by using multiple sites, you can ensure you are getting the best customer support available.
5. You can ensure you are getting the best value for your money. By using multiple gambling sites, you can ensure you are getting the best value for your money. This means you can get the most bang for your buck by playing at the sites that offer the best odds and bonuses.
How do I know if a gambling site is safe to use?
The first step is to check if the site is licensed and regulated by a reputable gambling authority. Gambling sites that are licensed and regulated by a reputable authority are typically safer to use than those that are not.
Another thing to look for is whether the site has a good reputation. You can usually find out what other users think of a site by reading online reviews.
Finally, it’s important to make sure that the site uses secure payment methods, such as PayPal, so that your financial information is protected.
What should I look for when choosing a gambling site?
When looking for a gambling site, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The first is safety. Make sure the site is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority. This will ensure that the site is fair and reputable.
The second is variety. Make sure the site offers a wide range of games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker.
The third is bonuses. Make sure the site offers generous bonuses, including sign-up bonuses and deposit bonuses.
The fourth is customer service. Make sure the site has a good reputation for providing quality customer service.
The fifth is security. Make sure the site has a good reputation for security, and that it uses the latest in security technology to protect your personal information.
What is a casino bonus?
Casino bonuses are incentives offered by online casinos to new and existing players. These bonuses can take the form of free spins, free cash, or match deposits. In order to receive a casino bonus, players must first meet the wagering requirements.
What are the different types of casino bonuses?
There are a few different types of casino bonuses, but the most common are deposit bonuses, no deposit bonuses, and free spins.
A deposit bonus is a bonus that is offered to players when they make a deposit into their casino account. This type of bonus usually ranges from 100% to 200% of the player’s deposit, and it usually comes with a minimum deposit requirement.
A no deposit bonus is a bonus that is offered to players without the need to make a deposit. This type of bonus usually ranges from $10 to $100, and it is often accompanied by free spins.
A free spin is a type of bonus that gives players the chance to spin the reels of a slot game for free. This type of bonus usually comes with a wagering requirement, and it is usually offered to players who make a deposit.
How do I deposit and withdraw money from an online casino?
To deposit money in to your online casino account, you will need to enter in to the cashier section of the casino and select your preferred deposit method. This could be a debit or credit card, an e-wallet or even a prepaid card. Once you have selected your deposit method, you will need to enter in your details and the amount you wish to deposit.
To withdraw money from your online casino account, you will need to go in to the cashier section and select your preferred withdrawal method. This could be the same as your deposit method, or you could choose a different method to receive your winnings. Once you have selected your withdrawal method, you will need to enter in your details and the amount you wish to withdraw.
What are the different types of online casinos?
There are three main types of online casinos: download casinos, instant-play casinos, and mobile casinos.
Download casinos are the traditional type of online casino. To play at a download casino, you have to download and install the casino software on your computer. The casino software contains all the games that you can play at the casino.
Instant-play casinos are also known as flash casinos. To play at an instant-play casino, you don’t have to download anything. You can play the games directly in your web browser.
Mobile casinos are casinos that you can play on your smartphone or tablet. Most mobile casinos offer the same games as the download and instant-play casinos.
What are the different types of casino games?
There are many different types of casino games, but some of the most popular ones include slots, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.
Slots
Slot machines are a type of gambling machine that creates a random result by using three or more reels that spin when a lever on the side of the machine is pulled. Slot machines are also known as one-armed bandits because they were originally operated by a lever on the side of the machine, as opposed to a button on the front panel, and because of the similarity of their appearance to the traditional bandit’s mask.
Slot games are one of the most popular casino games both in traditional casinos and online casinos. In traditional casinos, slot machines account for about 70% of the casino’s income. Online casinos offer a wide variety of slot games, including classic slots, video slots, and progressive jackpot slots.
Blackjack
Blackjack is a casino game that is played against the dealer. The aim of the game is to beat the dealer by getting as close to 21 as possible, without going over. The game is played with a deck of 52 cards, and each player is dealt two cards. The player can then choose to either hit (take another card) or stand (stick with the current total). The dealer also draws cards until they reach 17 or more, and must stand on all 17s and above. The player’s aim is to get closer to 21 than the dealer, without going over. If the player and dealer have the same total, the hand is a push and no money is exchanged.
Roulette
Roulette is a casino game that consists of a spinning wheel with numbered slots and a small ball. Players bet on where they think the ball will land after the wheel stops spinning. Roulette has been around for centuries and is still one of the most popular casino games today.
There are a few different types of Roulette, but the most popular is American Roulette. In American Roulette, there are 38 slots on the wheel, numbered 0-36. Players can bet on a single number, a range of numbers, black or red, even or odd, and a few other options. The payout for each bet depends on the odds of that particular bet winning.
To play Roulette, players place their bets on the table layout and then the dealer spins the wheel. When the wheel stops, the ball falls into one of the numbered slots. The player who bet on that number wins the bet.
Baccarat
Baccarat is a casino game played with a deck of 52 cards. The aim of the game is to predict which of two hands (the player’s or the banker’s) will be closer to nine.
There are three possible outcomes in Baccarat:
– The player’s hand wins (player’s hand is closer to nine than the banker’s hand)
– The banker’s hand wins (banker’s hand is closer to nine than the player’s hand)
– The game is a draw (both hands are equal)
The player can bet on the player’s hand, the banker’s hand or a draw. The player’s hand and the banker’s hand are both dealt two cards. If the total of the cards is eight or nine, the hand is ‘busted’ and the player automatically loses. If the total of the cards is less than eight, the player must decide whether to take a third card. The banker must also take a third card if the total of the cards is less than five, but can choose to stand if the total is six or seven.
The winning hand is the hand that is closest to nine. If both hands are equal, the game is a draw.
Baccarat is a popular casino game because it is simple to play and offers good odds for the player.
What are the myths about casino games?
There are many myths about casino games. The most common one is that the games are rigged, and that the house always wins. This is not true. The games are fair, and the house has no advantage over the player.
Another common myth is that casino games are addictive. This is also not true. Casino games are not addictive, and they cannot make you addicted to them.
Finally, some people believe that casino games are dangerous, and that they can cause financial ruin. This is also not true. Casino games are safe and they cannot cause you to lose your money.