How safe are online casinos?

Online gambling is all about having fun. But how can you have fun if it is uncertain whether your money and personal details are safe? A secure casino protects your funds, your personal details and offers provably fair games with transparent payout percentages. However, online fraud is still widespread and loopholes in a website's security system are exploited. The software behind the best online casinos is developed by leading software companies and independently tested and verified by third-party providers to give you a fair and reliable casino experience.

Encryption software explained

The most secure online casinos use the best available data encryption technology. This means that information and financial transactions between them and their customers cannot be read or accessed by other people.

SSL encryption

SSL encryption (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypts data into unbreakable codes that can only be decrypted by the computer or account of the intended recipient.

Use of TLS

TLS is a common method of data encryption. Transport Layer Security is the technology used by all major banks. So you know that your money is safe in online casinos with TLS.

Random generators explained

Random Number Generators (RNGs) are the part of the software code that generates a random sequence of numbers or symbols. An online casino uses these random number generators to ensure that every part of the game, be it blackjack, roulette or slots, is as random as possible.

Reputable casinos employ independent companies to regularly test and verify their random number generators. These results are usually made publicly available on the respective website. This ensures that real money winnings are distributed fairly. However, if you do not trust the random number generators, you have the option of Online Casino with Live Casino to play. There, the tables are streamed live from real casinos and you can watch the dealer at work.

Audit committees and commissions

All major online casinos have gambling licenses that are issued by state regulatory authorities. These include, for example, the Maltese MGA (Malta Gaming Authority), the Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association and several others. An independent regulatory authority for online casinos is also set to be created in Germany in mid-2021.

The software systems, apps and games in a reputable online casino are subject to regular audits by an independent auditing company. This is necessary for the site to maintain its license. All reputable online casinos either proudly publish the results of their audits and therefore have nothing to hide. When gambling online, you will most likely come across the following auditing companies:

• eCOGRA eCommerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance) - An internationally recognized organization that provides audits and monitoring of online casinos.
• TST (Technical Systems Testing) - A Canadian company that is considered one of the leading testing and compliance organizations. They offer independent testing services.

How to recognize an unsafe online casino

It can be difficult for an ordinary customer to spot an unsafe online casino. Here are the three most important factors by which you can recognize dubious providers:

• Bad reviews: Google can be your best friend when researching online casinos. If you see an online casino that has bad reviews or is even blacklisted by review sites, avoid it at all costs! There are plenty of better alternatives.
• No verification information: All secure online casinos either make their audit information public or send it to you upon request. If they have nothing to hide, they won't hide it.
• No license: An online casino without a license is a fraudulent establishment that operates illegally. They cannot be trusted. Make sure that the provider is licensed within Europe. This way you can be sure that everything is above board.

Security tips for online casinos and the internet

These tips can help you to play safely in an online casino. Most of them are generally applicable and can also help to improve security in other areas of the Internet:

• Authentication: Use complex passwords which, if possible, should not be made up of regular words. Do not use the same password on several websites. Enable two-factor authentication if the site supports it. Save your passwords in a password manager instead of writing them down or saving them on your computer.
• Updates: Keep your software up to date. This includes not only your device's operating system, but also all the apps and plugins you use.
• Access: Only use gambling sites on your personal devices. Do not use sensitive websites on devices in an internet café or library.
• Phishing: Watch out for emails, phone calls, text messages etc. from the website. No reputable site will ask you to send them your password, for example. This is usually always a scam attempt to gain access to your account details.
• Security software: Use security software such as antivirus software or a firewall.