When deciding on an online casino to play, you don’t want to choose just any one. Click here to discover how to safely make money through online casinos.
Online gambling is growing in popularity. Estimates suggest worldwide revenues from this activity will reach 66 billion US dollars by 2020.
Whether it’s from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer, you can have instant access to one of the thousands of online casinos.
This is the chance to use your mad card skills to make some money playing video blackjack or poker. Why not, after all? It seems like a great way to earn some extra money online.
But how do you know which casinos are safe? Sure, you’re a great card player and could make some real money, but you need to know how to avoid casinos that are there to rip you off.
We’re here to tell you what to look for. Before you go all in on that straight flush, here are some things to be aware of.
Licensing and Regulation
For many of us, researching a casino’s license isn’t something we typically do. Yet, this should be the first thing you think about when looking at a casino.
Usually, this information can be found in the “about us” section on the casino’s website.
A properly licensed and regulated casino will let you know the games are fair and your rights are protected. Everything from making sure you have a fair chance to win to how disputes are resolved fall under these agreements.
For example, what if you have a dispute about a game you just lost money on, or perhaps you didn’t receive your winnings?
You’ll want to know that the online casino has a proper dispute resolution process. It’s also important to know there is a government agency who can intervene on your behalf if necessary.
Unlike traditional casinos, online gambling is regulated at the federal level. While many countries provide government oversight, not all are willing to provide strong enforcement of the rules.
Your best bet is to check out the casino’s website. Stick with ones regulated by one of the following gambling authorities:
- United Kingdom Gambling Commission
- Malta Gaming Authority
- Antigua Division of Gaming
- Alderney Gambling Control Commission
- First Cagayan Leisure and Resort Corporation
Who Makes the Software?
An easy way to spot fake casinos is to look at who makes the software for their games. Most casinos use gaming software made by reputable third-party companies.
Any online casino that uses their own software is likely not legitimate.
Make sure the casino is using licensed versions of the software – and not an illegitimate copy. Many of the best online casinos will use an outside testing agency to continually monitor their software and verify it’s working right.
Trusted Reviews
Looking for trusted reviews of online casinos can help you identify which casinos you can trust. If the reviewers are not happy with the casino for some reason, then it’s better to steer clear of it.
Another source of information is player comments. These can help you identify casinos where players are having lots of problems and are best to avoid.
It’s normal to see a few negative comments from players who aren’t happy with some aspects of the casino. However, if they’re reporting major problems or you’re seeing a common thread to the complaints, move on to a different casino.
Refusal to Pay
You’ll want to find out how your winnings are paid out to you at any casino you use. Most casinos don’t pay winnings right away and take three to seven days to pay out. Some can take longer.
It’s important to keep track of when you’ve requested a payout and whether it arrived in the allotted time. If you have not received payment within that period, it’s time to become suspicious and get in touch with the casino.
Safe Banking Methods
Before you can use an online casino, you’ll need to deposit money there. For most players, this will entail using a credit card or online account.
As such, you’ll want to be sure the casino properly protects your credit card or other financial information. This will help you avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.
Check if the website has an encrypted link. Read the privacy policy to make sure your financial information is properly protected and doesn’t leak out.
Not Winning
Losing a bet at a casino is a common occurrence. This is one of the risks of gambling and something you need to consider before putting your money in jeopardy.
However, if you’re constantly losing the bet and never winning, that’s a warning sign. It could mean the games are not fair and designed to keep players from winning.
All casinos are supposed to use a random number generator to ensure the players have the chance to win. Never winning is a sure sign that this isn’t the case.
If this seems to be happening, then you should either walk away or do a deeper dive into the workings of the casino’s software. Try to figure out if it’s licensed and tested. You don’t want to keep playing if you can never win.
Online Casinos Marketing Practices
Reputable casinos should use appropriate marketing practices and not spam their users by email or phone.
If you suddenly start receiving a ton of email or phone messages from them, it’s time to rethink using the casino. While it’s normal for a casino to advertise, a reputable one won’t be flooding your inbox with messages.
Make a Smart Decision
Online casinos are increasingly popular and can be a fun way to win some money. Who knows, maybe you’ll even win enough to take that sweet Caribbean vacation you’re dreaming about.
But with thousands of casinos to choose from, you’ll want to ensure you’re using a legitimate one. Nobody wants to fall victim to a casino that will prevent you from winning and scam you out of your hard-earned money.
Now that you know these things, you’re ready to place your bet.
Get out there and enjoy the experience!
