The first appearance of online casinos in 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!

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

Keep in mind, 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, profitable, market. These were the unfortunates that tried hard but failed.

With all new markets on the other hand, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash because they can with virtually no morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the on-line gaming market has picked up more than its fair proportion of these conmen since its inception and this led, in lots of 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. Keep in mind, where fortunes can be won there will always be an element of addiction. Conversely, these cases are fairly rare as well as the vast majority of people can gamble small amounts responsibly. Look-at how many have a weekly flutter on the lotto with virtually no problems whatsoever.

It’s worth noting at this point that the industry generally, 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 alternatively, 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 certain countries or areas even though gambling is still illegal, so check what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what is the simplest way of choosing a secure and safe online environment by 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 recognized Company

Large international gaming businesses are now available online and have a reputation to preserve. They cannot afford any bad press as it’s going to 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 are already 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 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.

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

Portals are usually a good way by which to know more about how you can play. Many portal site pages are adorned with rules, strategy guides and often free to play games to try out your abilities before committing to regular play.

Secure Payments

All the worthwhile sites accept a variety of payment options with secure facilities to ensure your information is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe.

Set a Limit

Before you decide to start, set a limit on just how much you will 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 gambling online in a trustworthy and respectable site.