There was a time when online casino play was considerably more dangerous than its land-based cousin.Despite many changes in regulation, the inception of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), and many other steps being making to increase security at online casinos, the industry still carries a negative reputation with it to some.Is this reputation fair? And if you step into the online casino word, how can you be sure that you and your money will be safe and protected at all times?As always, we’re here to provide you with a guide that will tell you everything you need to know about the ins and outs of online casino security.
The Birth of Online Casinos
Back in the mid-90s, a revolution started when the first online casinos came into existence, things were very different.Early internet based industries did not hold security in particularly high regard, especially as the online boom began and there were such huge profits to be made in the online world.However, as the internet became more readily available to a wider range of people, the regulation of internet industries started to become more stringent, and that is a trend that has continued to this day.The online casino industry is no different, and the risks have decreased by a huge degree in the last 20 plus years.
UKGC
One of the biggest changes has been made in the time since the inception of the iGaming industry is the creation of regulatory bodies.Malta and the Isla of Man both have regulatory bodies that are well respected in the industry, as does the United Kingdom in the shape of the UKGC.Established under a 2005 law, the UKGC covers the entire remote gambling industry in the UK, as well as several parts of the land-based casino industry.Since its launch, the UKGC has made a strong impact on the safety of players in the UK online gambling market.With all operators who offer their services to UK players needing to carry a license from the Commission, which carries out regular checks for fairness of games and customer safety, UK players are amongst the safest in the world.
Staying Safe
It is, therefore, important to ensure that any online casino you are playing at has a license to operate in your jurisdiction, not only that, but if you see that a casino has licenses from other trusted bodies too, it can’t hurt.If you want to double check the safety of a casino, all regulatory bodies have a list of licensed operators.Research is all important when it comes to online casinos, as well as checking licenses, read up on your chosen casino, its reputation, customer service, etc.As long as you enter the online casino world with the same level of caution that you would any other online industry, then it is highly unlikely that you will be at any risk.However, if there is an issue, you can always contact the relevant regulator.