For those interested in online casinos, finding the right one is challenging enough. What adds a bit more frustration is learning about the “bad apples”. Due diligence is one of the best things a player could do before signing up. Lucky for you, we were able to put together this guide.
It features essential tips that will help you identify and avoid certain online casinos. Please read through this guide carefully to ensure you make the right decision going forward. Let’s begin now with what you need to know.
1. Find a “blacklist” from a reliable source
The first step in knowing what casinos to avoid is to find a blacklist. For example, AskGamblers has a blacklist that is accurate and reliable. These online casinos have been added to the list for one reason or another. They include but are not limited to the following:
- Unresolved complaints
- Lack of fairness
- Intentional refusal of payouts to players (when the players rightfully won)
If you come across an online casino that may be engaging in unethical activity, it’s important to file a complaint. AskGamblers also has a complaint support page that will allow you to make a necessary report.
2. Look for licensing (or lack thereof)
One of the biggest red flags about online casinos is a lack of adequate licensing. They must be licensed as they follow strict regulations to ensure fair play and player protection. Without these licenses, online casinos cannot operate legally.
However, some online casinos blatantly ignore this and accept players. In reality, online casinos must restrict players from certain jurisdictions where they are not licensed. Thus, failure to adhere to this can lead to legal issues for the provider.
3. Check for negative reviews
Online reviews have long been a reliable source for many things. This includes online casinos. Players who have an interest in one must look through online reviews. If there is a high prevalence of negative ones, this can be a major red flag.
There is a reason why there may be so many of them. Pay attention to any negative reviews discussing the bonus, payout, wager requirements, and more. Complaints like delayed payouts, poor customer service, and unfair practices could also be mentioned in these reviews.
4. Customer support is poor or inadequate
Issues can happen between online casinos and players. When this happens, it needs to be resolved quickly by customer support. Look for the following signs that customer support is poor:
- Lack of contact options
- Response times are slow (more than 24 hours)
- The support staff is unwilling to help or resolve the issue
If these are present, it’s better to steer clear of them. A real online casino will always place its customers as a priority – even if the issues they face are minor. They also are responsive when it comes to customer inquiries and concerns.
5. What is the payment structure like?
One of the chief complaints surrounding online casinos pertains to the payment feature. It’s important to withdraw your winnings promptly. Yes, there are wait times in place to deter any illegal financial activities. However, any payments that are delayed without explanation are one good reason to steer clear.
Also, difficulty accessing your winnings can pose a problem as well. Once again, look for any negative reviews about payments. For example, let’s say the time window is 24 hours for eWallets. If you haven’t received a payment and it’s been more than 24 hours, this is one good reason to steer clear.
6. Vague terms and conditions for bonuses
Bonuses are one of the reasons why many players sign up. However, it’s important to make sure those terms and conditions are clear and easy to understand. If they appear to be confusing or unclear, this can be a major problem. This is why it is important to review those terms and conditions before considering the idea of claiming a bonus.
7. Unapproved software providers
There are plenty of legitimate software providers including Scientific Games, NetEnt, and Evolution Gaming among others. Online casinos will typically display these on their site. However, this might always be the case with some others.
This is one more reason why you’ll want to perform due diligence. Especially on a software provider that offers online casino games.
If in doubt, stay out – follow this guide for better online casino experiences
Legitimate online casinos must adhere to setting the standards and expectations for each of their players. Following these seven tips above will help save yourself from any headaches that may arise. We encourage you to bookmark this guide especially if you are planning on playing regularly. It might come in handy when looking for a new online casino.