Online Gambling

How do you get started gambling online at blackjack, poker or a half-dozen other popular casino games? Online casinos typically offer their games in one of three ways: downloadable software, Java applets and HTML pages. Each format has pros and cons. Downloadable software takes time to download and install on your hard drive, but graphics and quality of play are typically very good. Some online casinos offer free CDs by mail that contain the gambling software. Java-based programs typically offer sound and animation, but at a poorer quality. Since there is nothing to download, play can commence immediately. HTML pages kind of meld the two: no downloads means faster play but you do compromise a bit on the quality of the casino games. When it comes down to it, personal preference should be your guide as to which format you feel most comfortable with.

c o n t i n u e d b e l o w

Play Blackjack Online Here

Like any other situation where real money is on the line, it pays to do a bit of research before you begin. Many online casinos will let you make a free visit without signing up; of course, you'd be playing blackjack or craps for fun rather than for cash. Read the terms carefully and be sure you understand all of the rules (particularly for comps and other special bonuses that require a certain level of play). Here are some other parameters you should keep in mind before selecting an online casino:

> What methods of payment will the online casino accept?

> What fees will you be assessed to play? How much?

> What software is used to run the games? Is it made by a reputable manufacturer?

> Does the site reveal who owns the site and provide some biographical information? Beware, sometimes illegitimate online casinos will take advantage of a well-known casino's name in an attempt to divert traffic. For example, if ABCDEFG.com is the name of a popular casino, a disreputable company may assume ownership of URLs for ABCDEFG-casino.com or online-ABCDEFG-casino.com. Some go so far as ripping off the logo and graphics so that the website even looks the same as the original. These shady sites are not affiliated with the original casino and should be avoided at all costs.

> Is the company licensed? It should be. Some sites are also accredited by the various online gaming commissions. Check www.internetcommission.com/directories.asp or www.gamblingcommission.com for listings.

> What is the policy on paying out winnings?

> What kind of customer service is available should you have a question or dispute? Is the number toll-free? Is it a working number? Check it.

> If you should have a dispute, what avenues of recourse are available to you?

Begin gambling online

When you find an online casino that meets your gambling requirements, you'll be required to sign in and deposit money into your account before you begin play. Most players ante up using a credit card, given the ease and convenience of this form of payment. Two quick words of caution: Some credit cards won't process gambling transactions and others regard them as cash advances and charge you a high APR rate. Most online casinos will accept Western Union and bank wire transfers; however, you will incur substantial fees (which some casinos will reimburse). Few online casinos accept personal checks; those that do will not honor the check until it has cleared (typically in the neighborhood of two weeks or so). Your best bet is probably to use a debit card or a form of electronic payment (like PayPal or CyberCash). Good luck gambling! ;)

Google on blackjack online
Open Directory on blackjack online
Wikipedia on blackjack online
Yahoo! on blackjack online