The first appearance of online casinos within the mid 90’s sparked the beginning of a brand new era, utilizing the net in a way unimagined of before. Online quality 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 however, were one hit wonders and as a result of poor marketing along with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Keep 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, lucrative, market. These were the unfortunates that tried hard but failed.

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

Unfortunately the internet gaming market has picked up more than its fair proportion 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 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 is always an element of addiction. Alternatively, these cases are fairly rare and also the vast majority of folks 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 to ensure that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and are often barred from playing.

Right now on the flip side, online casinos, poker rooms as well as other gaming sites have become fashionable and with the massively growing popularity, the numbers of people playing online has grown exponentially. In certain countries or areas though gambling is still illegal, so check what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what’s the easiest way of choosing a safe and sound online environment through which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look at some of the ways through which you may 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 can not 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’ll find a great 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.

As a result of the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributors, they’re a knowledgeable bunch that can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals will also be 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 talent before committing to regular play.

Secure Payments

All the worthwhile sites accept numerous payment options with secure facilities to be sure your data is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe and secure.

Set a Limit

Before you decide to start, set a limit on simply how much you would 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.