The very first appearance of online casinos in the mid 90’s sparked the beginning of a brand new era, utilizing the internet 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 as a result of poor marketing along with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

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

With all new markets on the flip side, 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 on-line 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 has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as it can be, citing cases of addiction. Remember, where fortunes can be won you will always find an element of addiction. However, these cases are fairly rare and the vast majority of people 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 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 to ensure 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 folks playing online has grown exponentially. In certain countries or areas although gambling is still illegal, so check exactly what the rules are for your area before playing.

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

Stick with a Well-known Company

Large international gaming businesses are now available online as well as 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 happen to be treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

Consult a Gambling Portal

You will find a great 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 top gambling portals only promote reliable, tried and tested sites.

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

Portals are usually a great way by which to know more about the way 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 of 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 secure and safe.

Set a Limit

Before you start, set a limit on 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 dependable and respectable site.