As the self titled world’s blackjack G.O.A.T player (IMHO) and well researched advantage gambler that’s studied blackjack & casino gambling for decades now, I have spent nearly three decades exploring the world of casino blackjack & slots gaming.
With 23 years of online casino experience under my belt, I have come to know what makes an online casino legit and I’m sharing my knowledge, experiences, advantage betting strategies and life wisdom yo help you have a better real online gambling experience.
The internet can be a goldmine for online gamblers, but also a place where you need to be cautious and stay away from scam casino sites and shady internet gambling operators.
In this blog post, I will explain how to determine the legitimacy of an online casino, and I’ll answer the top 10 frequently asked questions on this subject of if a casino is legit or not.
OnlineCasino.AI is supported by readers and we earn income for advertising services we provide through referral links on this site.
Identifying a Legitimate Online Casino
Online Gaming Licensing and Regulation
First and foremost, check for the online casino’s internet gaming license.
Legit online casinos are regulated by reputable licensing authorities, such as the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), or the Kahnawake Gaming Commission.
These organizations ensure that the casino operates under strict guidelines and maintain a high level of integrity.
Casino Software Providers and Game Selection
A legit online casino partners with reputable software providers, such as Microgaming, NetEnt, and Playtech, to offer a wide variety of games.
Check the casino’s game library for a diverse selection of slots, table games, and video poker games.
Quality online casino software ensures a fair and enjoyable gaming experience.
Security and Privacy
Online casinos should use encryption technology like SSL (Secure Socket Layer) to protect your personal and financial information. Look for casinos that have clear privacy policies and are certified by independent security organizations like eCOGRA.
Customer Support
A legit online casino will offer responsive and helpful customer support. Look for multiple contact options, such as live chat, email, and phone support. The more avenues of communication a casino offers, the more likely they are to provide assistance when you need it.
Online Casino Payment Methods
A legit online casino should offer a variety of secure and widely accepted payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. The casino should also provide information about deposit and withdrawal limits, fees, and processing times.
Best Online Casino Software at a Glance
Here’s an OnlineCasino.AI table with data for top game software providers for online casinos:
Software Provider | # of Slots | # of Table Games | # of Video Poker Games | Gaming Licensing Info | Year Founded |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Microgaming | 600+ | 100+ | 50+ | UKGC, MGA | 1994 |
NetEnt | 200+ | 50+ | 20+ | UKGC, MGA | 1996 |
Playtech | 500+ | 60+ | 30+ | UKGC, MGA | 1999 |
Evolution Gaming | N/A | 100+ (Live) | N/A | UKGC, MGA | 2006 |
IGT | 200+ | 40+ | 20+ | UKGC, MGA | 1975 |
Betsoft | 150+ | 30+ | 10+ | MGA | 2006 |
Realtime Gaming | 200+ | 50+ | 20+ | Curacao | 1998 |
Yggdrasil | 100+ | 10+ | N/A | UKGC, MGA | 2013 |
Quickspin | 70+ | N/A | N/A | UKGC, MGA | 2011 |
Play’n GO | 150+ | 30+ | 10+ | UKGC, MGA | 1997 |
Novomatic | 300+ | 40+ | 10+ | UKGC, MGA | 1980 |
ELK Studios | 50+ | N/A | N/A | UKGC, MGA | 2013 |
NextGen Gaming | 200+ | 20+ | 10+ | UKGC, MGA | 1999 |
Thunderkick | 50+ | N/A | N/A | UKGC, MGA | 2012 |
Red Tiger Gaming | 100+ | 10+ | N/A | UKGC, MGA | 2014 |
The table above contains a selection of the top 15 casino software developers, detailing their offerings and licensing information. However, specific game counts may vary slightly between different internet casinos using these providers.
Top 10 FAQs about Legit Online Casinos
Q1: How do I check if online casino has a valid gaming license?
A1: Visit the casino’s website and look for the licensing information, usually located in the footer or the “About Us” section. You can also check the licensing authority’s website for a list of licensed operators.
Q2: Can I trust online casino reviews?
A2: While online reviews can be helpful, it’s essential to consider the source. Look for unbiased reviews from reputable websites and pay attention to both positive and negative feedback.
Q3: Are online casinos rigged?
A3: Legit online casinos use random number generators (RNGs) to ensure fair play. Independent testing agencies, such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs, often certify these RNGs.
Q4: How can I ensure my personal information is safe at an internet casino?
A4: Choose a casino that uses SSL encryption technology and has a clear privacy policy in place. Always use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication when available.
Q5: What games are on a legit online casino?
A5: A legit online casino should offer a wide variety of games, including slots, table games, and video poker, from reputable software providers.
Q6: How do I know if a casino’s bonuses and promotion offers are fair?
A6: Read the terms and conditions carefully. Look for reasonable wagering requirements and transparent rules. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Q7: Can I play at online casinos from anywhere in the world?
A7: Online casino availability varies depending on the jurisdiction and local gambling laws. It’s essential to check if online gambling is legal in your country or region before signing up for an account.
Q8: How long does an online casino withdrawal take?
A8: Withdrawal times vary depending on the payment method and the casino’s processing times. E-wallets are usually the fastest, followed by credit cards and bank transfers. Check the casino’s banking information for specific details.
Q9: Are there any red flags to watch out for when choosing a casino online?
A9: Some red flags include a lack of licensing information, poor customer support, negative reviews, outdated website design, and an absence of reputable software providers.
Q10: Can I play for free at legitimate online casinos?
A10: Yes, many legit online casinos offer free play or demo versions of their games. This allows you to try out the games before committing to real-money wagers.