The first appearance of online casinos in the mid 90's sparked the beginning of a brand new era, utilizing the web in a way unimagined of before. Online Gambling had begun and was set to become one of the webs most popular pastimes!

Some of the very first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and have become leaders within their field. Others conversely, were one hit wonders and due to poor marketing along with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Of course, 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 on the contrary, 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 online 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 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 is possible, citing cases of addiction. Remember, where fortunes may be won there's always an element of addiction. In contrast, these cases are fairly rare as well as the vast majority of folks 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 on the whole, over the past couple 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 to ensure that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and also are often barred from playing.

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

So what is the easiest way of selecting a safe and sound online environment by which to play casino or poker games? Let's look-at some of the ways by which you may protect yourself when gambling online.

Stick with a Well-known Company

Large international gaming companies are now available online as well as have a reputation to preserve. They cannot afford any bad press as it's going to affect the entire 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 have been treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

Consult a Gambling Portal

There are a good many gambling portals available online giving advice on all facets 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.

Due to the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributors, they're a well informed bunch who can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals will also be a good way through which to learn more about the 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 a number of different payment options with secure facilities to ensure your data is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe and sound.

Set a Limit

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