The very first appearance of online casinos within the mid 90’s sparked the beginning of a whole new era, utilizing the net 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 first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and also have become leaders within their field. Others alternatively, were one hit wonders and due to 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, profitable, market. These were the unfortunates that tried hard but failed.

With all new markets alternatively, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash because they can with virtually no morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the on-line gaming market has picked up more than its fair proportion of these conmen since its inception which led, in lots of peoples minds to the entire industry being tarred with the exact 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. Simply, where fortunes may be won you will always find an element of addiction. On the contrary, these cases are fairly rare as well as the vast majority of individuals 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 sector generally speaking, 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.

These days however, 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 casino gambling online has grown exponentially. In certain countries or areas even though gambling is still illegal, so check what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what is the best way of deciding on a safe and sound online environment through which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look at several of the ways in which you can protect yourself when gambling online.

Stick with a Well-known Company

Large international gaming companies are now available online and also have a reputation to preserve. They cannot afford any bad press as it shall 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 are already treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

Consult a Gambling Portal

There are a great many gambling portals available online giving advice on all aspects 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 can be a knowledgeable bunch who will advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals are also a great way through which to find out more about the best way 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 of the worthwhile sites accept many various payment options with secure facilities to make sure your details are protected. Only play at the sites where your details are secure and safe.

Set a Limit

Before you decide to start, set a limit on simply how much you could 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 dependable and respectable site.