Develop an eye for good online gaming.

The good, the bad and your homework:

Online gambling is a growing, non-regulated industry that encompasses a variety of casinos. The good news is that the majority of them play fair, basing their income on about 75% of all money deposited. The bad news is that there are always a few less reputable and even non-licensed casinos lurking in the corners of the great virtual gaming arena.

Beware of these bad guys, and beware of their fixed games - fortunately, the competition in global business maintains a high standard that the majority of online casinos adhere to. If nothing else, then remember this: it's hard work maintaining an online casino. So out of respect to the honest business people, and for the safety of your own bank account, be sure to play at casinos that work hard to earn and maintain an honest home[page] on the Web.

Now, before you dive in and commit, do the following "homework assignment". Oh, one more thing, we weren't going to say it, but… yes, this is the kind of homework that actually does pay-off.

1. Start by playing for free. Don't even consider playing at online casinos that don't offer this possibility. This is your chance to check the professional level and software used by the house.

2. Check to be sure that the online casino is licensed by a sovereign government.

3. Test the reliability of its customer service. Only choose online casinos that offer both an e-mail address and a toll-free number.

4. Play at online casinos whose slot machines and games allow you to gamble with values ranging from minimum (e.g., nickels, quarters, and dollars) to maximum.

5. Compare between different online casinos' rules regarding bonuses. Inform yourself about their cash-out procedures. Pay attention to the waiting periods.

6. Make sure the casino provides you with an orderly track of deposits and cash-outs.

7. Look for a reputable third party that audits the casino.

8. Find out just how many versions of video poker the online casino offers. Don't settle for a casino that didn't invest enough in its software.