The first thing you need to look for is the online casino’s level of accountability. Are they licensed and regulated by an authoritative jurisdiction? If so, you know they are implementing proper security measures and data encryption technologies. You can also be sure the games are fair due to thorough, monthly testing of the RNG (Random Number Generator); a standard operative programmed into the software to guarantee unpredictable outcomes.
Choosing the Right Online Casino
You’ll find the licensing and regulation information quite easily, in most cases. Scroll down to the very bottom of the online casino’s main page and look around the copyright info for “licensed in”, “licensed by” or “gaming license from”. If not offered in text, the authority may be displayed as an image. Common regulators include Malta, Alderney, Gibraltar, Kahnawake, Curacao, Netherlands Antilles, Antigua and Barbuda, Isle of Man, the United Kingdom, among others.
Proper licensing and regulation can put most of your concerns to rest alone, but there is one more way to ensure that an online casino is not going to ignore the laws of its jurisdiction. Longevity.
An online casino that has been in operation for several years or better is not going to suddenly turn around, blowing a long-standing reputation, and refuse to pay its players. A brand new casino, however, may not be as trustworthy. An online casinos reputation goes a long way, and without longevity, there’s no way to build a reliable reputation. Simply put, try to join a casino that has been around for at least 3 years or longer.
Now that you feel confident you’ve made the right decision, it’s time to take the next step and join the online casino. There are three basic steps – downloading the software, registering an account, and making a deposit.
Step 1 – Downloading the Casino Software
PC users are encouraged to download the online casino’s software. If you are running a Mac or Linux operating system, you may have to choose the Flash casino. If running the Flash casino, it will load directly in your browser. Skip the download instructions and go straight to Step 2, Registration.
Once you enter the online casino, you should have no trouble finding the “Download” button. If you don’t see one, look for a “Getting Started” link. Once you click Download, a window should pop-up asking to “Run”, “Save” or “Cancel” … Click “Run”.
Your computer may ask you to confirm the decision. Once the download is complete, select to install the software. Follow the instructions and you’ll be ready in no time. Once the installation is done, click “Finish” and the online casino lobby will instantly load on your desktop.
Step 2 – Registration
This part of the isn’t nearly as daunting as you may think. A simple, one-page form requires you to offer up some personal information. Don’t worry – if you followed the first steps to ensure the integrity of the online casino, you have nothing to feel nervous about.
Make sure you give your real, accurate information when joining the online casino. Otherwise, you may not be permitted to make a deposit, or worse, withdrawal your winnings. You should not be asked for financial information at this point – just the basics… name, address, date of birth, email, etc.
Be sure to choose a username and password that you can easily remember, but not easy enough to figure out. Write them down somewhere to be safe and never give your password to anyone, no matter how much you think you can trust them. This is real money we’re going to be dealing with.
Step 3 – Depositing
Last but not least, assuming you want to play for real money, you’ll want to make a deposit. First, head over to the promotions page and find out what kind of deposit bonuses are available. If you choose to accept a welcome bonus, make sure you read the terms involved so that you know how to claim it, and how to clear it.
Head over to the cashier and choose to make a deposit. There will be a list of viable deposit options. You may have to click a drop-down menu to see them. Choose the method that best suits your situation and geographical location, then follow the instructions to complete the deposit.
For example, if depositing via credit card, you will be asked to supply the card number, expiration, name on the card, address and amount to deposit. Depending on which card you deposit with, you may be asked to supply a 3-digit security code, found on the back of your card. The name and address you enter must match the card, as well as the info your registered with (remember, we told you to use real info).
There are also some no deposit casinos available for players in the UK and around the world, but offers will vary as it is unlikely they will just give you free money and let you withdrawal any winnings just like that – you will need to understand the play through requirements.
You can find the specific bonuses offered in each of our individual casino reviews which includes no deposit bonus information if they offer one.
If using an online payment processor, you should only need to enter your account name and amount to deposit. You will be directed to the payment processors web site, where you’ll log in and confirm the deposit.
Time to Play
You should now be ready to play at your new online casino. Good luck, have fun and don’t forget to enjoy playing at casinos – Play responsibly.
