Online Gambling Gains Respectability

The first appearance of online casinos in the mid 90’s sparked the beginning of a new era, utilizing the internet in a way unimagined of before. Online Gambling had begun and was set to become one of the webs most popular pastimes!

Some of the first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and have become leaders in their field. Others however, were one hit wonders and due to poor marketing coupled with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Of course, some were run by genuine businesses wanting to build a reputation for fairness and integrity and stand the test of time in an up and coming, lucrative, market. These were the unfortunates that tried hard but failed.
With all new markets however, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash as they can without any morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the online gaming market has picked up more than its fair share of these conmen since its inception and this led, in many peoples minds to the whole industry being tarred with the same brush.

The Press also has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as possible, citing cases of addiction. Of course, where fortunes can be won there will always be an element of addiction. However, these cases are fairly rare and the vast majority of people can gamble small amounts responsibly. Look at how many have a weekly flutter on the lotto without any problems whatsoever.

It’s worth noting at this point that the industry in general, over the past few years, has somewhat gained a reputation for fairness and security. The conmen are now few and far between, although admittedly, some still exist. The leading sites also have measures in place so that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and are often barred from playing.

These days however, online casinos, poker rooms and other gaming sites have become fashionable and with the massively growing popularity, the numbers of people playing online has grown exponentially. In some countries or areas though gambling is still illegal, so check what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what’s the easiest way of choosing a safe and secure online environment in which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look at some of the ways in which you can protect yourself when gambling online.

1. Stick with a Well-Known Company
Large international gaming companies are now available online and have a reputation to preserve. They can’t afford any bad press as it will affect the whole of their operations, both on and offline.

2. Word of Mouth
What better way to get first hand information on how a site is operated than asking others how they have been treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

3. Consult a Gambling Portal
There are a great many gambling portals available online giving advice on all aspects of online gambling, including, but certainly not limited to casinos, poker, bingo and skill games.

Read the reviews of the gaming sites they feature or read their forums for the “word of mouth” recommendations. The top gambling portals only promote reliable, tried and tested sites.

Due to the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributers, they are a well informed bunch who can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals are also a great way in which to learn more about how to play. Many portal site pages are adorned with rules, strategy guides and often free to play games to try out your skills before committing to regular play.

4. Secure Payments
All of the worthwhile sites accept many different payment options with secure facilities to ensure your data is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe and secure.

5. Set a Limit
Before you start, set a limit on how much you would be prepared to loose and don’t cross that line.
Using the above information you should be well on your way to having an enjoyable time when playing online in a trustworthy and respectable site.

Good Luck!