Safety is among the biggest concerns when it comes to surfing the Web, especially when it comes to doing business online. There is no shortage of disreputable websites intent on stealing your money or identity. Therefore, staying safe online should be your primary objective when looking for an online casino to patronize. Here is a guide to help you do just that online casino games.
Regulations
Online casinos do not have a single regulatory authority to which they answer, partly due to the fact that they exist in many different jurisdictions. However, they are still regulated. Regulatory groups exist as government agencies and third-party groups, such as the e-Commerce and Online Gaming Regulation Assurance (eCOGRA). These groups test the websites for safety and fairness, investigate complaints, and determine whether or not they are safe for players. You should only gamble on the website if you see proof that it has been approved by such a regulatory authority.
Software
Although some online casinos use their own game software, many buy licensed software from third-party developers with a reputation for fairness, safety and innovation. The presence of some of the biggest software names in the industry, such as Microgaming, CryptoLogic, Playtech, to name a few, can help assure that the website is legitimate and safe. These software designers have been around for a while and have built a level of trust with the players worldwide.
The games on which you gamble are controlled by a random number generator (RNG), which is a computer program that uses a complex algorithm to select a series of numbers. The numbers are generated hundreds of times every second, including when the game is not being played, and each number represents a specific outcome. The RNG is designed to guarantee that the outcomes of the games are random and that they payout within the proper percentage of time. The software is routinely tested for accuracy and fairness by the aforementioned regulatory authorities.
Banking
Banking security is vital for an online casino, since you routinely make deposits and withdrawals and share sensitive financial and personal information. All transactions on an online casino should be just as safe and secure as transactions with your bank. You should expect the same level of encryption, firewall and other protective measures. Many websites buy licensed banking security software from the same companies that design the software for their games. Like the gaming software, the banking software is tested to ensure its security. Aside from encryption and other security measures, you should make sure the website will provide you with your transaction history upon request.
Money Management
Even if you find a reputable and safe online casino to join, your gambling is only safe if you manage your money wisely. If not, then you are not safe from yourself. The most important money management strategy is to never bet money that you cannot afford to lose. If losing the money would cause some kind of burden for you, then don’t bet on it. No matter what game you play, the odds are not in your favor, which means you have a better chance of losing than of winning. Whenever you bet any money, you should do so with the understanding that you can lose it all. With that in mind, a good idea is to determine your spending limit before you ever start gambling. Determine the maximum amount you are willing to spend and then set it aside and do not spend more than that, no matter what happens when gambling, either good or bad.