Online gambling may be overwhelming for the newcomer. As an online gambling veteran, I get asked many questions from family members that I introduce to online gambling.

Online gambling includes activities such as online poker, casinos, skill games and sports books.

Here, I answer some a few of the common questions I am asked.

Is gambling online safe and sound?

Wagering online will be as safe as going to your local bookmakers or casino.

Make certain that when you are depositing money that you will be doing this on a secured, encrypted page. You may often tell this by a padlock symbol within the browser as well as the address beginning with https.

Check that the site is licensed and regulated by a Government gaming body. They are going to often display this at the bottom of the site. But to be sure go on the federal government licensing body website and check that the site is listed. If it’s, in which case you have some protection regarding fraudulent activity and arbitration if you think something is wrong (such as you are not compensated to a bet that you believed you won).

As is relevant to the internet as a whole, check regularly for viruses and make certain that your anti-virus software is definitely up-to-date.

What to I need for gambling online?

You will need a computer that is linked to the internet. However, many gaming sites now offer mobile gaming platforms so you are able to get by with just your smart phone. Broadband and 3G connection will provide the best gaming experience.

You’ll also need a type of payment to deposit at the site. Many will accept third party wallets for example Money bookers. You can top up the wallet direct from your bank or debit/credit card and after that transfer to the gaming site.

Beware that depositing via a credit-card for gambling, can incur additional costs from your credit-card company. As a result, it really is often best online betting to use either a debit card or third party wallet.

How much do I need to begin with?

You can often play games and place bets from as low as 10p. Conversely, often their will be the very least deposit of about Ł/$10. You may usually play games for free additionally, to get a feel of what you will be playing for real money.

Most places also offer a bonus on your first deposit so you may be playing with more money than you initially deposited, although you can find often wagering requirements with bonuses.