So, you've decided to take the plunge and enter the world of online casinos. As exciting as it is, there's actually quite a lot of information and fine print before signing up.
Are you asking questions like, which online casino is best? Are they legit? What happens with banking? Wait, what games are even available? Fear not, we've compiled a comprehensive guide of all the need-to-knows to get you started on your online gambling journey.
1. Ask, is the casino reputable and licensed?
First things first, every online casino in the UK has to be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. They regulate the industry, checking every operator to protect players and stop illegal activity. Every online casino has to be regulated by the UKGC. They also have to show it on their site. You should be able to find the official logo, usually in the footer.If you want to get off to a good start, the first order of business is to make sure you're using the internet's resources to their full potential. With quite a few shady businesses and fishy operators out there, your best bet is to pick your provider. Each online casino listed here is licensed, reviewed, and has experts' seal of approval, so you really can't go wrong!
2. Opening an account and getting verified
You decided on a casino, and now it's time to open your account. You'll start by filling in your general details, username, password email, you know, the usual. For your account to be registered they'll need you to provide age verification. So have your passport or driver's license on hand to upload an official form of photo identification.The UK regulations are strict as they try to prevent fraud, underage gambling, and laundering, so the onboarding process is thorough and lengthy. They'll check your identity and verify your address, date of birth, and financial verification.
Also, some online casinos are now requiring a selfie. It's just to rule out identity theft and check that another person isn't controlling your account.
3. Sorting out the banking
Next, you'll need to set up and verify your banking details to withdraw and deposit funds to play. There are numerous payment methods, but it's important to check that they have the one that's most convenient for you, is secure, and has the lowest banking fees.You'll find the top banking methods are debit cards, credit cards, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill), prepaid cards, mobile and internet banking, and wire transfers. It's really up to you which banking method suits you.
4. Check out signup bonuses
UK online casinos have loads of great bonuses and packages available to entice players. It's essentially promotional offers that award players free spins or free money. For new players it may be a little confusing, so let's take a look at the most common types of bonuses.Welcome bonuses- These are awarded to first-time users. They are often some of the biggest awards claimed by signing up. Non-deposit bonuses are included in welcome packages, and shouldn't be brushed over when signing up. They give you a small amount of money to gamble so you can get a feel for the online casino.
Deposit bonuses- They're basically a bonus amount you receive after you've deposited into your casino account. Check the fine print because you can receive higher bonuses if you deposit using site-preferred banking methods.
Free spin bonuses- Not likely to win you big bucks, free spins give you an extra chance of winning. If you're feeling lucky, they're great!
Loyalty bonuses- If you're in it for the long hall, browse the casino's loyalty bonuses. After all, players should be rewarded well for their loyalty!
5. Browse games available
Finally, to the good part, the games. You're joining an online casino for the games, so be sure to check out what options and varieties are available before signing the dotted line.Generally, the most popular games are split into a few categories. Mainly slot games, table games, live dealer games, and specialty games.
Slot games- Slot games are a computerized version of the classic slot machines you'd see in a real casino. They have loads of fun themes. Maybe your passion for Vikings and slots can finally align! When playing slot games, set your bet limits beforehand to keep your gambling in check.
Table games- From blackjack, poker, roulette, and more, you'll find different styles and variations of these classic casino games.
Live dealer games- If you're looking for casino ambiance, sites offer live dealer games in real-time, where real-life dealers are streamed directly to you.
Specialty games- Games of chance like bingo and keno fall under this category. They offer prizes if you win, and some have jackpots.
Spend time researching online casinos, reading their reviews, and what they can offer you. If you join a reputable online casino and sign up right, it'll be smooth sailing ahead. Good luck gambling!
