As appealing as the online casinos and gambling may seem to be in the US, everything is not all that it seems. Some online platforms operate in a lousy way and could scam you as well.
However, with an abundance of platforms, how do you differentiate between a legal and fake one? Well, that is why, it is important to choose a trustworthy platform or go through a top online casino guide created by expert analysts to look for a reputable site to play from.
In this guide, we will explain and break down key methods that can help you in finding a legal online casino in the US, whether you are wanting to play at a more traditional online casino, or perhaps try an online sweepstake casino which is a new and innovative way of casino gaming. The choice may differ but the tips for playing safe remain the same.
Why Licensing is Important?
The licensing is considered to be one of the key factors that define the fact that a certain casino is legal. Online gambling in the US is legal as per the existing laws on the state level. All the states that allow online casinos expect the companies to obtain a licence within their respective state. This ensures that they follow certain guidelines of fairness, security and protection of the players.
The only way you are likely not to find the licensing information on the site is if the casino is not legally permitted to operate in the US legally. That is why it is very crucial to check whether the casino on a website has provided licensing information or not. This information will be available on any good platform and it will be very obvious where you will find this information, on the bottom of the homepage.
Verifying Casino Legitimacy: Key Methods
To find a legal online casino, you have to verify certain features. Here are the key methods to ensure the platform you’re using is legitimate and safe:
1. Check for State Licensing
Just like in any other business, it is licensing that is the most important indicator of a legal online casino. For this reason, there are gambling laws in the US, and online casinos that function in the US require licensing in that US state. Before registering on any site, check if the casino holds a valid licence from a recognized state gaming authority, such as:
- New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
- Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
- Michigan Gaming Control Board
- West Virginia Lottery
2. Research the Casino’s Reputation
This is actually the best way to verify if the casino is trustworthy: reading user reviews and independent ratings. Look for forums and websites that rank the number one online casino platform in case other users have had some good times with it. If you are reading reviews, then look at what other people review about the payout speed, customer support and safety of their personal and financial data.
3. Confirm RNG Testing
Online casinos based in the USA and are legal must incorporate Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure fair play on the site. They generate random outcomes for slots which are out of the control of the casino offering them or the player using them. To verify that the casino’s games are fair, check if the site has been audited by independent organisations such as:
- iTech Labs
- Gaming Laboratories International
- eCOGRA
4. Look for SSL Encryption
An online legal casino prioritises the security of players’ information. Checking for SSL encryption should be done to find out the extent of security that the platform provides. SSL or Secure Socket Layer encrypts the data and deters others from reading it. To verify, just look if the website’s address begins with “https://”.
5. Check for Responsible Gambling Measures
Tools for responsible gambling such as deposit limits and self exclusion options are also offered by legal casinos. This makes player safety and US regulation a priority on the platform. Go to the ‘responsible gambling’ page on the specific casino site you are thinking of to play. It should include links to the National Council on Problem Gambling or Gambling Therapy, in case a player requires assistance on his gambling.
Remember to Check!
It is not quite an easy process to look for an online casino that has legal operation in the United States due to things such as state approval, standard security, and good support for customers. By following the above steps and only using reliable resources with current information on the top online casino sites, one should be able to have not only a lot of fun but also a safe experience.