Ever since transitioning online, the casino industry has been thriving. The huge rise in online gambling, both in terms of industry growth and newer players coming to the sector—rather than traditional casino—could prompt the online gambling wagers to surpass $1 trillion by or around 2022.

This was according to a study conducted by UK-based research business, Juniper Research.

However, before signing up, committing your cash and spinning away, there are some fundamental knowledge you need to know about online casinos.

Regulations

There are currently different gambling regulations for online casinos in different locations around the world. So, it’s important to determine which gambling law applies to your country before signing up.

In countries like the UK, players can reach a whole lot of online casinos which are legal to players over 18 years old.  However, in other countries like Germany for example, prospective gamblers might experience difficulties locating an online casino where they can sign up to.

Always ensure that the casino you intend playing at is licensed in a jurisdiction that makes it legal for you to play.

Games on offer

Playing at online casinos offers a wide variety of games that players can choose from. More often than not, players are most likely to find a lot more games than at a traditional casino.

At most online casinos you would find all the popular casino games such as Blackjack, Roulette and Texas Hold’em. There’s also a wide variety of online slot games that takes traditional slot games to a whole new level.

Overall, you need to ensure that the casino you choose has the games you would like to play before signing up.  Whether it be slot games, table games, or even a Live Dealer option.  That’s why sites like online-casino-canada.ca offer reliable independent reviews of online casinos operating in Canada

Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling is an important part of gambling that should not be ignored if you’re planning on joining an online casino.

Unfortunately, quite a lot of players become addicted to winning money and in gambling, there’s always the likelihood of losing the money that was put in.

"Gambling addiction can have a devastating effect not just on patients, but also their families. It can result in people losing their job, and leave families and children homeless,” said Dr Henrietta Bowden-Jones, director of the National Problem Gambling Clinic, at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust.

"We know the condition may have a genetic component -- and that the children of gambling addicts are at higher risk of gambling addiction themselves -- but we still don't know the exact parts of the brain involved. This research identifies key brain areas and opens avenues for targeted treatments that prevent cravings and relapse."

However, to curb these threats, many sites offer responsible gambling guidelines—with some placing deposit limits and freezing accounts when things escalate. The customer service teams of these sites can equally be contacted in instances where an addiction is growing and there’s a need to close your account.

Security

Before attempting to deposit real money, it’s important to ensure that the casino is licensed and that your casino of choice accepts a preferred and secure banking option.

Always look out for signs of insecurity and report to appropriate authorities.

Last month, online casino 32Red was handed a £2m fine by the UK Gambling Commission after it failed to act in protecting problem gamblers from using its service.

“Instead of checking on the welfare of a customer displaying problem gambling behaviour, 32Red encouraged the customer to gamble more - this is the exact opposite of what they are supposed to be doing,” said Richard Watson, commission executive director in a report.

“Operators must take action when they spot signs of problem gambling and should be carefully reviewing all the customers they are having a high level of contact with.”