The very first appearance of online casinos within 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!

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 as a result 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 conversely, 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 internet gaming market has picked up more than its own way 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 also has a part to play their dogged determination to knock trusted online casino gambling agency gambling as often as it can be, citing cases of addiction. Remember, where fortunes may be won there will always be an element of addiction. On the contrary, 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 the problems whatsoever.

It’s worth noting at this point that the industry on the whole, 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 so that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and also are often barred from playing.

Currently however, online casinos, poker rooms as well as other gaming sites have become fashionable and with the massively growing popularity, the numbers of men and women playing online has grown exponentially. In certain countries or areas although gambling is still illegal, so check what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what’s the easiest way of deciding on a safe and secure online environment by which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look at some of the ways by 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 can’t 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 discover a great many gambling portals available online giving advice on all facets 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 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 may be a well informed bunch that will advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals will also be a great way in which to know more about how exactly 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 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

Prior to deciding to start, set a limit on how much you would 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.