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

Several of the first few online casinos that appeared, have, rather remarkably, survived the test of time and also have become leaders in their field. Others however, were one hit wonders and due to poor marketing coupled with abysmal customer support they failed miserably and disappeared shortly after opening.

Remember, 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, profitable, 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 online gaming market has picked up more than its fair share of these conmen since its inception and this led, in many peoples minds to the whole industry being tarred with the exact same brush.

The Press has a part to play their dogged determination to knock online gambling as often as it can be, citing cases of addiction. Of course, where fortunes can be won there is always an element of addiction. However, these cases are fairly rare as well as the vast majority of men and women can gamble small amounts responsibly. Look-at how many have a weekly flutter on the lotto without any problems whatsoever.

It's worth noting at this point that the area generally speaking, over the past few years, has somewhat gained a reputation for fairness and security. The conmen are now few and Novamentis`s blog far between, although admittedly, some still exist. The leading sites in addition have measures in place so that problem gamblers get help with their addiction and also are often barred from playing.

Right now on the other hand, online casinos, poker rooms as well as other gaming sites have become fashionable and with the massively growing popularity, the numbers of folks playing online has grown exponentially. In some countries or areas though gambling is still illegal, so check precisely what the rules are for your area before playing.

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

Large international gaming businesses are now available online and have a reputation to preserve. They cannot afford any bad press as it's going to 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 happen to be treated there and whether they find it an enjoyable site or not.

You will discover a great many gambling portals available online giving advice on all facets of online gambling, including, but certainly not restricted to 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.

Due to the close working relationship held between the site owners and contributors, they're a up to date bunch who can advise with some authority or where to play safely.

Portals also are a good way in which to get more information about how exactly to play. Many portal site pages are adorned with rules, strategy guides and often free to play games to try out your skills before committing to regular play.

All of the worthwhile sites accept numerous payment options with secure facilities to be sure your data is protected. Only play at the sites where your details are safe and sound.

Before you start, set a limit on just how much you could be prepared to loose and do not 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.