The very first appearance of online casinos in the mid 90's sparked the beginning of a brand new era, utilizing the net in a way unimagined of before. Online Gambling had begun and was set to become one of the webs most popular pastimes!

Some of the very first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and also have become leaders within their field. Others conversely, were one hit wonders and as a result of poor marketing along with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Simply, some were run by genuine businesses wanting to build a reputation for fairness and integrity and stand the test of time within an up and coming, lucrative, market. These were the unfortunates that tried hard but failed.

With all new markets on the other hand, the conmen will appear, ripping off customers and grabbing as much of other peoples cash as they can with virtually no morals, scruples or sympathy.

Unfortunately the on-line gaming market has picked up more than its own way of these conmen since its inception and this led, in many peoples minds to the whole industry being tarred with the same brush.

The Press also has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as is possible, citing cases of addiction. Simply, where fortunes can be won there's always an element of addiction. In contrast, these cases are fairly rare and also the vast majority of folks can gamble small amounts responsibly. Look-at how many have a weekly flutter on the lotto without the problems whatsoever.

It's worth noting at this point that the sector in general, over the past couple 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 so 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 folks playing online has grown exponentially. In certain countries or areas even though gambling is still illegal, so check what the rules are for your area before playing.

So what's the simplest way of picking a safe and secure online gambling site environment through which to play casino or poker games? Let's look at several of the ways through which you can protect yourself when gambling online.

Large international gaming businesses are now available online and also have a reputation to preserve. They can't afford any bad press as it will affect the entire of their operations, both on and offline.

What better way to get first hand information on how a site is operated than asking others how they are already treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

You'll find a good many gambling portals available online giving advice on all facets of online gambling, including, but certainly not limited by 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 top gambling portals only promote reliable, tried and tested sites.

As a result of the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributors, they can be a knowledgeable bunch that will advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals will also be a great way by which to get more information about how to play. Many portal site pages are adorned with rules, strategy guides and often free to play games to try out your abilities before committing to regular play.

All the worthwhile sites accept a number of different payment options with secure facilities to make certain your details are protected. Only play at the sites where your details are secure and safe.

Before you start, set a limit on just how much you could be prepared to loose and don't cross that line.

Using the above mentioned information you should be well on your way to having an enjoyable time when playing online in a dependable and respectable site.