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

Some of the very first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and also have become leaders in their field. Others on the flip side, were one hit wonders and as a result of poor marketing coupled with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Remember, 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 conversely, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash as they can without the 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 several peoples minds to the whole industry being tarred with the exact same brush.

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

It’s worth noting at this point that the sector generally, over the past couple of 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 in addition 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 as well as 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 even though gambling is still illegal, so check just what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what’s the easiest way of selecting a safe and sound trusted online casino gambling agency environment through which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look-at several of the ways by which you can protect yourself when gambling online.

Stick with a Well recognized Company

Large international gaming businesses are now available online and also have a reputation to preserve. They can’t afford any bad press as it will affect the entire 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 have been treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

Consult a Gambling Portal

You will find a good 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 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 well informed bunch who can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals will also be a great way through 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.

Secure Payments

All of the worthwhile sites accept a number of different payment options with secure facilities to make sure your data is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are secure and safe.

Set a Limit

Before you start, set a limit on just how much you could be prepared to loose and don’t cross that line.

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