The very first appearance of online casinos in the mid 90’s sparked the beginning of a whole new era, utilizing the web 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 as well as have become leaders within their field. Others on the contrary, 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 because they can without any morals, scruples or sympathy.

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

The Press has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as is possible, citing cases of addiction. As always, where fortunes can 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 industry normally, 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 to ensure that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and also are often barred from playing.

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

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

Stick with a Well-known Company

Large international gaming businesses are now available online and have a reputation to preserve. They can not 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 can find a good many gambling portals available online giving advice on all facets 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 may be a up to date bunch that can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

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

Secure Payments

All the worthwhile sites accept numerous payment options with secure facilities to ensure your data is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe.

Set a Limit

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

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