The first appearance of online casinos in 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 among the webs most popular pastimes!

Several of the very first few excellent online casino casino casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and have become leaders in their field. Others on the flip side, 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 on the other hand, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash as they can without any morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the online gaming market has picked up more than its fair proportion of these conmen since its inception and this led, in many peoples minds to the whole industry being tarred with the exact same brush.

The Press additionally 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 can be won there will always be an element of addiction. In contrast, these cases are fairly rare as well as 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 generally speaking, 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 also have measures in place so that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and are often barred from playing.

These days alternatively, online casinos, poker rooms as well as 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 exactly what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what is the best way of selecting a secure and safe online environment through which to play casino or poker games? Let’s look at several of the ways by which you may protect yourself when gambling online.

Large international gaming companies are now available online as well as have a reputation to preserve. They can’t afford any bad press as it shall affect the entire of their operations, both on and offline.

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.

There are a good 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.

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

Portals will also be a great way by which to learn 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 skills before committing to regular play.

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

Before you start, set a limit on just how much you will 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 trustworthy and respectable site.