The very first appearance of online casinos within the mid 90’s sparked the beginning of a whole 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!

Several 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 contrary, were one hit wonders and because of poor marketing coupled with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

As always, 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 in contrast, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash since they can without the morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the internet 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 has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as it can be, citing cases of addiction. Bear in mind, where fortunes can be won there’s always an element of addiction. However, these cases are fairly rare and the vast majority of folks 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 area in general, over the past number 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 flip side, online casinos, poker rooms and other gaming sites have become fashionable and with the massively growing popularity, the numbers of individuals playing online has grown exponentially. In some countries or areas however gambling is still illegal, so check exactly what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what’s the best way of picking a secure and safe online betting environment in 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-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 shall 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’ll find a good many gambling portals available online giving advice on all aspects of online gambling, including, but certainly not limited by 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.

Due to the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributors, they’re a up to date bunch that will advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals also are a great way by which to get more information about how to 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 many different payment options with secure facilities to make sure that your details are protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe and sound.

Set a Limit

Prior to deciding to start, set a limit on the amount 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 online in a trustworthy and respectable site.