Rules & Strategies

Choosing an online casino is not hard - but you should do your homework first.

This means looking at where the casino license was issued (are they licensed?), what gaming software is used, what signup bonuses are offered, what kind of support is available and what kind of reputation the casino has among regular players.

Where to Play

You should only play at a casino that is licensed in a respected jurisdiction. Kahnwake is a well known and respected territory that carefully evaluates prospective operators before issuing a gaming license. Other highly regarded territories that issue gaming licenses include Vanuatu and the Isle of Man.

Next consider what gaming software is used by the casino. Some software is routinely associated with rogue casinos. On the other hand, Microgaming is the most commonly used gaming software and has an excellent reputation. Other top names are Boss Media and Cryptologic.

If the casino does not clearly state what software they use, or what jurisdiction they are licensed in - avoid them!

Signup Bonuses

Most online casinos offer some form of signup bonus to new players. These bonuses come in two forms - a 'No Deposit' bonus and a 'Match Deposit' (or Match Play) bonus.

A No Deposit bonus is usually in the range from $10 - $22 (all values shown are in USD). You can usually claim this bonus soon after you sign up as a real, cash player. You don't need to make a deposit of your own money in order to receive this bonus - hence the name 'No Deposit bonus'!

A Match Deposit bonus is slightly more complicated. In this case it applies to your initial purchase only. The casino will match that purchase at a rate of anywhere between 25% and 100%. There is always an upper limit on the size of the bonus paid.

You might be wondering, with all this 'free' money - what's the catch? Well, there is a small catch. Most casinos have what they call 'wagering conditions' attached to the bonus money. There is usually a requirement for the player to wager (bet) the bonus, plus your deposit (if any) ten times over - or more in some cases - before you are allowed to withdraw (also known as a cashin) from your purse.

For example, if you claim a $22 No Deposit bonus, you will be required to wager ten times this amount ($220) before you will be allowed to cashin from your account.

Support

The next question that an online gambling newbie should ask is 'How good is the casino's support?' At a minimum you should expect email support, with acknowledgement of your query - or a full response - within an hour.

Some casinos also offer live chat support. This is an excellent service that can often answer your questions within minutes.

Some casinos also offer telephone support, where you can talk with an experienced customer service representative in person. Look for international toll-free numbers.

Reputation

Next, look around the Internet at some online gambling forums.

Look for positive or adverse comments posted by players in these message boards and forums. If you see a lot of negative comments about the casino you are considering joining, you may want to think again!