As the Coronavirus Pandemic continues, countries are extending lockdown periods to keep the virus contained. With more free time on their hands, many people are choosing to use their time playing online casino games. This has led to an influx of new online gambling platforms with not all being legit and regulated sites providing a safe experience.
Many gambling experts suspect this current pandemic and uptake in online gambling activities could lead to an increase in online fraud and crime.
These experts suggest that the average person does not know whether a platform has a license to operate or not. Especially in states with no legalisation of online gambling where many online casinos are operating illegally.
While there are countless safe and regulated online casinos available online it’s difficult for newcomers to separate the legit for the illegitimate.
Here are some tips on finding a legit and safe online casino to play at:
When searching for an online casino you will find hundreds of options available. When you find a casino that captures your attention it’s important to do a few checks first before signing up.
The first thing you need to look for is if the casino is legally licensed. All licensed casinos are regulated by state-approved gaming authorities and adhere to strict rules. If a casino is not legally licensed it is best to stay away.
If the casino has the correct licensing in place, the next step is to see if they incorporate the right safety protocols. First, check to see if the little lock sign is found next to the URL of the website. Most legit online casinos will also provide information on their websites regarding their safety protocols. These include SSL data encryption and several player protection services and options. If the site has none of these available it’s best to look for another site.
One of the easiest ways to separate the legit from the illegitimate is by digging a little deeper.
With online gambling being so popular, there are a number of websites featuring in-depth reviews on casinos as well as feedback and reviews from players. Take the time to read through these reviews and comments for your specific casino site.
Many review sites will immediately tell you if a casino can be trusted or if it should be avoided.
One of the easiest ways for you to fall victim to crime or fraud is by sharing too much of your personal information. Always avoid sharing personal and financial details online. And if possible, make use of e-wallets so payments to the casino are safer and less information is required with deposits and withdrawals. And never share your personal information with customer support agents online.
One of the biggest mistakes people make nowadays is to download software from apps on a whim. While apps are readily available for almost everything nowadays not all apps are legitimate. Some apps especially those that pop-up are not necessarily legitimate.
Always download your apps directly from the official PlayStore or iStore. Alternatively directly from the online casino's website once you’ve done all the necessary security checks.
Many legit online casinos will offer you free spins or free bonus funds to test out the waters before you start playing for real money. Take up this offer to get a feel for how the website works, what games they have available and if you enjoy the navigation style of the casino. If you still like the casino after the free trial then start playing for real money.
Before you can start playing for real money at any online casino you will be required to make a deposit. Check to see which payment options the casino has available and whether payments are done securely. Don’t add your bank card too easily. If possible rather make use of an e-wallet or alternative payment options to prevent identity theft or funds being taken from your account.
When you start playing at an online casino, you may be mesmerised by the large number of bonus offers and promotions on offer. While it is possible to open multiple accounts to claim these freebies, it is considered a violation of the rules. If you get caught, your account could get banned permanently. Rather stick to one account for any and every online casino you choose to play at.
Another major must when it comes to bonuses and promotions is to take the time to read the terms and conditions. Most legal online casinos will have a general set of terms and conditions as well as promotion/bonus specific ones. While it might be a lot to read and a tedious process this will save you a lot of heartache and confusion in the long run. Understand the withdrawal requirements, deposit limits and other restrictions before trying to play at the casino.
Customer support is incredibly important so make sure the online casino you play at has a fully operational and functional support team available. Make sure there are multiple support options available. Most legit online casinos offer support via Live Chat, Email and Telephone. If you struggle to find customer support options at a casino or the support given is inadequate rather stay away.