Online gambling can be challenging for the newcomer. As an online gambling veteran, I get asked many questions from relatives that I introduce to online gambling.

Online gambling includes activities such as online poker, casinos, skill games and sports books.

Here, I answer some a number of of the common questions I am asked.

Is gambling online safe and secure?

Wagering online will be as safe as going to your local bookmakers or casino.

Ensure that when you are depositing money that you’ll be doing this on a secured, encrypted page. You can often tell this by a padlock symbol within the browser and the address beginning with https.

Check that the site is licensed and regulated by a Government gaming body. They will often display this at the bottom of the site. But to be sure go on the federal government licensing body website and check that the site is listed. If it is, then you have some protection regarding fraudulent activity and arbitration if you think something is wrong (for example you are not paid for a bet that you believed you won).

As is relevant to the web as a whole, check regularly for viruses and make sure that your anti-virus software is definitely up-to-date.

What to I need for gambling online?

You shall need a computer which is linked to the web. On the other hand, many gaming sites now offer mobile gaming platforms so you are able to get by with just your smartphone. Broadband and 3G connection will provide the best online casino gaming experience.

You shall also need a type of payment to deposit at the web site. Many will accept third party wallets such as Money bookers. You can top up the wallet direct through your bank or debit/credit card and after that transfer to the gaming site.

Beware that depositing via a credit-card for gambling, can incur additional costs from your credit-card company. For this reason, it is often best to use either a debit card or third party wallet.

Just how much do I need to begin with?

You may often play games and place bets from as low as 10p. Conversely, often their will be the very least deposit of about Ł/$10. You may usually play games for free in addition, to get a feel of what you will be playing for real money.

Most places offer a bonus on your first deposit so you may be playing with additional money than you initially deposited, although you will find often wagering requirements with bonuses.