Unless you know what to look for, telling the difference between a safe online casino and a scam site is not always obvious. Luckily, if you stick to casinos that have the following features, you can play online safely.
License
To operate a legal online casino, the company must successfully apply for a gaming license from the appropriate gaming authority. For example, to run an online casino in New Jersey, the casino must secure a permit from the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Licensed platforms are much safer due to the strict regulations they conform to. They must separate player and company funds, use encryption to protect your data, and have their RNG regularly audited. Also, if you feel you’ve been mistreated, you can complain directly to the gaming authority. This institution can fine the casino and help players receive compensation.
Tested Games
Online casino players are often concerned that the games are rigged or manipulated. Fortunately, this is impossible if you stick to platforms with audited and tested titles.
Famous game providers like Pragmatic Play and Evolution Gaming not only have to apply for licenses like online casinos do but also subject their releases to extensive testing from 3rd party labs. They verify the games’ return to player (RTP) percentage, random number generator (RNG), max win, and other key features. Providers are only allowed to release products that pass this testing.
Casinos themselves don’t actually have access to the titles’ RNG algorithms, meaning they are unable to manipulate the results. Once a software provider is licensed, you can safely assume its games are legit.
Extensive Know-Your-Customer Protocols
Legit online casinos don’t just let anyone sign up and start playing. They verify the identity of all users to prevent underage play, visitors from restricted areas, identity theft, money laundering, and other crimes. If an online casino is requesting your ID, proof of address, and proof of funds, it is actually a sign they are running a legal operation.
Verified Bonuses
A common trick shady online casinos employ is luring unsuspecting players with fake bonuses. Once you claim the promo, the casino will make up all sorts of excuses about why it can’t release your winnings and come up with different terms and conditions.
On the other hand, legit online casinos offer real bonuses with clear rules of use. They will never pull a bait-and-switch, and if you follow the T&C, you can successfully withdraw your winnings.
Take the Zula sign up bonus, for example. When you register, you will actually receive 100,000,000 GC and 10 SC in your account. All the promo rules are described in plain language, and you have a great chance of converting your free SC into a reward.
Responsible Gaming Tools
Safe and trustworthy online casinos want you to enjoy their offer safely, which is why they offer a range of responsible gaming tools, from deposit and time limits to self-exclusion.
Additionally, in many jurisdictions, online casinos are legally mandated to offer responsible gaming tools. Scam casinos, on the other hand, are only interested in taking your money as fast as possible and don’t care about players’ well-being.
If you play at licensed online casinos with tested games and secure payment methods, you should have a safe experience. Also, double-check that the casino provides responsible gaming tools and bonuses with fair terms and conditions!
