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101 FAQs about online gambling
11 to 20
Do I have to be an adult to play?
How do I choose an online casino?
Do I have to download the games?
Will the software run on my computer?
Play vs Real mode, what’s the difference?
What are Bonuses and the rules?
Do I have to be an adult to play?
For most casinos you must be 18 or older to wager real money. If you're under 18, you can play for fun at most online casinos.
How do I choose an online casino?
There are many hundreds of online casinos but the vast majority of players are to be found at just a few of the better known and respected ones. Follow the links throughout this site for some of the better ones.
Do I have to download the games?
No. Most casinos offer no-download versions of their more popular games such as blackjack, roulette and slots. However, it is worth noting that the download games often offer better graphics, sound and animation.
Most casinos let you play the games for free before placing a real-money bet. That way you can "test drive" the casino and choose the games you like best.
What is a download anyway?
Some casinos, but certainly not all, will ask if you want to download their software package in order to play their games. There are a couple good reasons to do so: (1) you'll get a full-featured package with all the bells and whistles, and (2) there's some evidence that the downloaded packages are more secure. That said it's hard to argue with the "instant" gaming option that the "no-download" games that many casinos offer. If you want to get right to it this is the way to go.
One thing to keep in mind is that many casinos offer their games in both the no-download and download varieties. You can always start with the no-download games and upgrade to the full package when it suits you.
Will the software run on my computer?
Yes (normally) If your machine is running modern software and you're able to surf the internet satisfactorily then your computer will, in all likelihood, have no problems at all with the casino games.
Play vs Real mode, what’s the difference?
Play means you’re not playing for real cash and Real means you are. Beyond that there’s the question of whether the games you play are the same in both modes. All the casino operators say “Yes, same games” but there have been a number of instances where players have demonstrated that that’s not entirely true. Your best bet is to go with one of the major online casinos if you want to ensure that your Play mode games are running exactly the same software as you’ll be seeing in Real mode, but even then it’s not a 100% certainty in all cases at all times.
When do I get my winnigs?
Casinos vary widely on this, but the short answer is that you'll need to be patient. Even if the casino lets you withdraw right away it could take weeks to receive your cheque. Some casinos won't let you withdraw until you receive a PIN number from them through the mail. Still others require numerous pieces of identification be faxed to them so they can verify that you are who you say you are. Always read the casino's information on withdrawals, it should all be spelled out what their terms are clearly there. If you don't like what you see, try another casino.
What is the PIN number for?
In most cases the casino's cash-out policies are pretty reasonable, albeit a little inconvenient sometimes. Many of them issue the user a unique identification number, a PIN, that you need in order to initiate a cash-out. Often your PIN number comes in the post which can beslow. The theory is that it's for your own good since receiving it confirms that you actually live at the address they have in their database. It also helps the casino avoid fraud. Whatever, it's become part of the way many online casinos do business so you're probably just going to have to get used to it.
How much is it going to cost?
Avoid casinos that charge on withdrawals, except in obvious circumstances such as the wire-transfer fee that places like Western Union charge. It's well worth your time to read your casino's website page of "Banking" or "Withdrawals". The vast majority of casinos are quite reasonable in their withdrawal options. If it's not clear, email or phone them and find out what the deal is.
What are Bonuses and the rules?
Bonuses come in a bewildering variety and it's no small thing to decide what's a great deal and what's just middle of the range. All casinos will require that you play the bonus before you can withdraw it. Some require you to play many times the bonus plus your original deposit, and on and on it goes.
Don't abuse the bonus offers. If the casino suspects you of abuse you will be the loser because you're depending on them to handle your money honestly and responsibly: if they suspect you've been cheating them they're well within their rights to freeze your funds until they get things sorted out to THEIR satisfaction. Then there's the issue of fair-play on the casino's part. Some casino managers have a tough time with the fact that a player can deposit £100, get a £50 bonus, hit a winning streak at the Craps table and cash out for £2200. Whatever the reason, a few casinos have been known to withhold the player's winnings, or freeze player accounts completely. Do a little research if you're serious about using a particular casino's bonus. Read the message boards and check out reviews before starting. See Online Casinos for more information on the different types of bonuses.