Online gambling is hugely popular these days, becoming a multi-billion dollar industry that caters to both first time gamblers and experienced slot pros.
The online experience has grown so significantly in the last few years (particularly throughout the coronavirus pandemic) that digital slots and their flashy kin make up one of the biggest industries in the world.
But how do you make sure you’re giving your money to the right website? What separates an average slot site from a good one, and how do you make sure you’re not getting ripped off by a scam casino?
Licencing and Regulation
Always make sure you gamble with a slot site regulated by an official governing body.
In the USA, that means choosing sites that are proudly registered with one of the leading regulatory bodies in North America, designed to keep online casinos in line and ensure they’re providing a fair, quality service.
Abroad, in countries like the UK, official sites will be regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. Do not deposit your money into accounts on sites lacking these licensings, no matter how enticing their offers and selection of games are.
The very best slot sites guides will only include sites licensed by official governing bodies, so make sure even the recommendations you’re reading are on the level, such as this guide to the best slot sites in the UK.
The smartest slot players aren’t just those that understand how to read patterns and when to walk away, they know the finer — often more boring — details of gambling to make sure they’re not getting caught out.
Secure technology and safe depositing options
Security is essential on the web these days.
If you’ve ever shopped online or deposited cash in an online bank it’s likely you have your own internal system for deciding whether or not a website fits your own personal security requirements.
However, if you don’t, here are some things to look out for.
A secure website has an SSL certificate attached to it. This ensures that any information entered on this website (such as your card details) is secured and inaccessible to potential hackers.
A secure payment portal managed by a recognised company is also a must. This ensures that any deposits you make are managed by a trusted third party. If a gambling site accepts all major cards and offers you to pay using PayPal, this is a fairly good sign of one that’s safe and secure.
You should also check for all the hallmarks of a respectable website. A professional design, mobile adaptability and a variety of games on offer. These, coupled with the essential security measures, are the sign of a slot site that cares about its customers.
Great customer service
A legitimate slot site will put significant detail and attention into providing quality customer service.
A good slot site will no doubt be inundated with calls, emails and chat bot messages throughout the day for simple questions and issues. If you’re on a slot site for the first time and can’t see any evidence of customer service and contact information, it might be time to split before your pockets get emptied.
What does good, reassuring customer service look like though?
A legitimate website will have a clear telephone number and email address you can get in contact with about any concerns you have. Many will have a live chat feature to message somewhere then and there with your question or a selection of pre-prepared answers. The lack of an FAQ page should also raise alarm bells, as it indicates either a business not established enough to have thought of one or potentially a more sinister scam.
Essentially if a business is encouraging you to get in touch it’s usually a good sign. One that tries to keep at arm’s length is one you should avoid depositing cash with.
The best slot sites know what wins them great customers in the first place and keeps them coming back. It’s not flashy games or great offers, but trust and attention. Never bet with sites that are lax on security and seem less than interested in responding to your requests. There are safer, and more enjoyable, ways to spend (and make) money online.
