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

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

Simply, some were run by genuine businesses wanting to build a reputation for fairness and integrity and stand the test of time within 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 since they can without any morals, scruples or sympathy.

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

The Press additionally has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as possible, citing cases of addiction. As always, where fortunes can be won there will always be an element of addiction. Alternatively, these cases are fairly rare as well as the vast majority of men and women 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 area 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.

Currently on the contrary, online casinos, poker rooms as well as other gaming sites have become fashionable and with the massively growing popularity, the numbers of individuals playing online has grown exponentially. In some countries or areas however gambling is still illegal, so check exactly what the rules are for your area before playing.

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

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 shall affect the whole of their operations, both on and offline.

Word of Mouth

What better way to get first hand information on how a site is operated than asking others how they happen to be treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

Consult a Gambling Portal

You can find a great many gambling portals available online giving advice on all aspects of online gambling, including, but certainly not restricted 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 very best gambling portals only promote reliable, tried and tested sites.

As a result of the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributors, they can be a knowledgeable bunch who can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals will also be a great way in which to get more information about the best way to play. Many portal site pages are adorned with rules, strategy guides and often free to play games go to this website try out your talent before committing to regular play.

Secure Payments

All of the worthwhile sites accept a variety of payment options with secure facilities to be sure your details are protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe and sound.

Set a Limit

Prior to deciding to start, set a limit on how much you would be prepared to loose and do not cross that line.

Using the above information you should be well on your way to having an enjoyable time when playing online in a dependable and respectable site.