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 among the webs most popular pastimes!

Several of the 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 because of poor marketing coupled with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Bear in mind, 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 contrary, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash since they can without any morals, scruples or sympathy.

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

The Press has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as is possible, citing cases of addiction. Of course, where fortunes can be won there is always an element of addiction. On the other hand, these cases are fairly rare and the vast majority of folks can gamble small amounts responsibly. Look-at how many have a weekly flutter on the lotto without any 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 in order that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and are often barred from playing.

Currently on the contrary, 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 has grown exponentially. In certain countries or areas however gambling is still illegal, so check just what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what's the best way of selecting a safe and secure online environment by which to play casino or poker games? Let's look at some of the ways in which you can protect yourself when gambling fantastic online casino gambling agency.

Stick with a Well recognized Company

Large international gaming businesses are now available online and have a reputation to preserve. They can't 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

You will discover 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.

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 are also a good way by which to know more about just how 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.

Secure Payments

All the worthwhile sites accept a variety of payment options with secure facilities to guarantee your information 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 could 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.