Wherever you are, you can access an online casino. Compared to its land-based counterpart, you can enjoy playing casino games and earn real money at the comfort of your home. And thanks to technology, you get the same quality and amount in prizes. It might seem like there’s no reason to go back to land-based casinos because of this.
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look out for the harms that come with going to a sketchy one. To gain access to online casinos, you have to register an account. That process requires you to give your personal details in hopes that the online casino will safekeep it. If you’re not careful, you’ll lose access to your account while compromising your personal and financial details.
Online casinos are convenient, but the level of safety it provides depends on how well you can measure it. Some players tend to focus on the bonuses and rewards, which lead them to bad places. And some focus on the design and interface, which is only a portion of what a “secure” online casino looks like. While a reliable online casino is not exclusive from offering high rewards, the latter is a great bait to use for hackers.
The basic formula to this is to do your research. But doing only that limits you from recognizing a legitimate versus a fake online casino. You can say you read something, but not be able to see it when you’re already playing at one. So, let’s find out how to stay safe when gambling online.
Use a VPN
A Virtual private Network (VPN) is a tool that places users on a secured and encrypted IP address when accessing a site. You’ve heard of this, but as a tool for browsing on websites not available in your country. But a VPN is more than that if you talk about security. It helps you stay safe when playing, since hackers won’t be able to see where you’re at any time.
But be careful when using a VPN, because some online casinos don’t welcome it well. In fact, if you use a VPN and it goes against the online casino’s terms, they can confiscate all your funds and close your account.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication or 2FA is a security solution where the casino site asks for your login credentials and a code they send you after. It combines something you know (e.g. password) to something you can access with what you have (e.g. code you can access on your phone). Hackers then have a long time bypassing another layer of security connected to you real-time.
Check whether the casino holds a license
A license is a strong proof that the online casino is legitimate and safe. An online casino can only get a license if it matches the standard of an authority. Security and privacy are crucial metrics to determine whether an online casino deserves a license or not. Of course, make sure the authority is an actual authority and has a great reach. All in all, stay away from online casinos that don’t have a license.
Some common licensing authorities include:
Curacao Gaming Authority (CGA)
CGA is the most common issuer among the three. Albeit some say it doesn’t compare much in quality since it’s easier to obtain, its commonness gets praise. In fact, any online casino can get a license from CGA because it became an international license.
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
MGA is the first licensing authority to issue licenses for online casinos. More so, its license has a great level of influence in Europe. An online casino can operate anywhere in the said continent as long as they hold a license from the MGA.
The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC)
The UKGC is the one of the strictest licensing authorities, covering England, Scotland, and Wales. Today, it has issued over 3,000 licenses to casinos and bookmakers.
Check the casino’s privacy policy and terms
Reading the casino’s terms and privacy policy doesn’t mean reading it word per word. Terms have a summary or a headline for specific subjects. You can focus on how they store and use your information, as well as the withdrawal method. These two are important in telling you how safe your identity is and how much you earn per payout.
Change your password every month
It might seem like a vague chore, but changing your password helps. And the more frequent you change your password, the better. But make sure you add some symbols and numbers to make it hard to track. You can also check on websites that show which letters, numbers, and symbols people use a lot.
Another thing is to combine a specific reference to you and something random when making a password. Never put your username or actual name on your new password.
Choose safe payment methods
Payment methods are vital to an online casino. But they’re also one of the most common ways for hacking to happen. If the hacker gets hold of your payment details, make sure you disable your account right away. Now, what does a safe payment method look like?
The first one is that it’s famous. Don’t settle for a payment method no one is familiar with, or worse, is too local. Payment methods available at an online casino should already have a name and work for all users around the world.
If you’re using cryptocurrencies, make sure transactions happen between your crypto wallet and the site only. Cryptocurrencies run on a decentralized system, so there’s no need for third-party apps to handle the transaction.
Check for any encryption method
The best way to not get a headache while gambling is to make sure you’re anonymous while on the site. Encryption methods are not a new thing anyway. Many online casinos provide it, so it should be a base requirement for you as a player.
Encryptions like SSL help you move without making any traces. If you’re opening your bankroll and transacting, none of the players know. And the site can’t keep up with your business, which is how it should be.
Never use a public Wi-Fi
Using public Wi-Fi is dangerous when you’re gambling online. These spaces collect your contact and personal details. The information sought, like where you use your data, can be used by the state or institution against you. But more than that, hackers have an easier time accessing the database of these than your personal router. Since public Wi-Fi stations don’t add any layer of security, hackers can target you faster, too.
So, what can you do instead? Aside from not using your device for gambling outside, you can stick to your mobile data. You can use another sim for this sole purpose, since your original contact detail might still be at risk. In line with not using public Wi-Fi, never use hotspots from anyone.
Choose a strong, unrelated username
Last but definitely not the least on this list is to think hard about what username you’re going to use. Even though you’re not the only one who has your name, putting your real name there can hurt. It’s better if you can use a username from a reference only you know. Make sure to add numbers and symbols if you can. This helps you avoid any targeting from hackers, especially if you have some reputation more crucial than an average person.
Finding an online casino is easy. But to find one that you know keeps you safe can be a bit more difficult. But if you know which things to look out for, you won’t have any problems. Take note that the more an online casino provides that is on this list, the better. Still, having one of the things on the above list doesn’t make it safe by default. Always lean towards the habit of researching online casinos.
Bottomline
Online casinos provide not only entertainment but also a chance to win rewards. But, it is important to remain vigilant to protect personal and financial information.
Following the safety tips listed above can help you stay safe while gambling at online casinos. Additionally, reading online casino reviews and joining casino forum websites increase safeguards against malicious parties including rogue casinos.
