Bet-ya wanted to know that...

101 FAQs about online gambling

91 - 101

Questions you should be asking before gambling online

Internet gambling can be as fun and exciting as a real casino. Instead of waiting for your lucky machine, you can just log on and play.

While this multi-billion pound industry grows at a substantial rate, it does remain non-regulated. The industry depends solely on self-regulation.

Before taking out your credit card there are a few things that you should know first. When looking for an online casino to play, you should have the eleven questions below answered.

  1. Is the casino licensed? If not, find another casino.

  2. Does the casino have free customer service number that is answered 24 hours a day? If no, find another casino.

  3. Do they allow you to play for free? This is very important: it gives you the chance to check out their software before you spend any money. If they do not, find another casino.

  4. What is the smallest denomination of their poker and slot machines? You're looking for a wide variety of denominations.

  5. How many different versions of video poker do they have? They should have at least three. That tells you that the operator has spent a lot of money on the software. Beware of those casinos that tell you they only have one version of video poker.

  6. What is the smallest and largest bet that they accept on craps or blackjack? This is mainly for your own betting information.

  7. Does the casino have a place where they keep track of your purchases and cashouts?

  8. How is the customer service? There's an easy way to test this: Send them an email with a question and see how long it takes them to reply.

  9. What is the reputation of the software maker involved in the casino? There is no sense in gambling online if you do not know how you will collect your winnings.

  10. Make sure you read all the rules on bonuses and cashing out procedures. Do your homework before you gamble online, not after.

  11. Before you wager, call the casino's free customer service number and ask the following question, "If I buy in with my credit card for $100 but cash out $300, how will I get paid?"
    Beware of those casinos that tell you they will send you a cheque - ask how long it takes. Most casinos take up to 4 weeks. That is unacceptable unless the site clearly states the time frame for receiving your money.
    The only answer that you are looking for is that they will, within 3 days, credit back your credit card up to the original amount of purchase, then give you an option of mailing you a cheque overnight or transferring it into your account.