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 among the webs most popular pastimes!

Some of the very first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time as well as have become leaders in their field. Others alternatively, 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 within an up and coming, lucrative, 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 as they can without the morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the on-line gaming market has picked up more than its own way of these conmen since its inception which led, in many peoples minds to the entire industry being tarred with the exact same brush.

The Press also 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 may be won you will always find an element of addiction. On the other hand, these cases are fairly rare and the vast majority of individuals 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 area 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 in addition have measures in place so that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and also are often barred from playing.

Currently conversely, 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 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 safe online environment through which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look-at some of the ways in which you can protect yourself when gambling online.

Stick with a Well recognized Company

Large international gaming companies are now available online as well as 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 happen to be 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 facets of online gambling, including, but certainly not restricted to casinos, poker, bingo and skill games.

read full article 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.

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

Portals will also be a great way in which to find out 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 skills before committing to regular play.

Secure Payments

All of the worthwhile sites accept many different payment options with secure facilities to make sure that your information 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 would be prepared to loose and don’t cross that line.

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