Microsoft and Google ante up
Microsoft, Google, Yahoo settle gambling claims for $31.5M
Companies accused of receiving money from online gambling sites to advertise illegal betting
December 19, 2007 (Reuters) – WASHINGTON – Microsoft Corp., Google Inc. and Yahoo Inc. agreed to a settlement worth $31.5 million to resolve accusations that the companies promoted illegal Internet gambling, the U.S. Department of Justice said today.
The companies were accused of receiving money from online gambling businesses to advertise illegal betting from 1997 through 2007.
As part of the settlement, the companies will pay cash to the U.S. government and provide millions of dollars worth of public service advertisements informing young adults and teenagers that Internet gambling is illegal.</em>
Again we must ask. Why is a victimless “crime” such as online gambling made illegal? What a staggering notion, that if one evening you decide to play online poker, smoke a joint, or perform oral sex- it remains purely you and your partners choice, not some nanny pants theocratic government stooge. What a radical way to run your world.
As John Lennon says. Imagine.
