Minnesota tries to block online gambling

(AP) - Minnesota regulators are trying to prevent online gambling.

Using a 1961 federal law designed to stop illegal gambling, the state has directed 11 telephone and Internet service providers to block nearly 200 gambling Web sites.

The state Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division says it expects responses from AT&T Internet Services, Charter Communications, Comcast Cable and the other providers within two or three weeks.

AT&T, Charter and Comcast representatives didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.

State regulators are also warning those who gamble online that they could lose money and access to their Internet escrow accounts.

Online gambling is illegal throughout the country.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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