Online gambling and its rise has caught the attention of people across the globe. It’s evident there has been a surge in interest when it comes to online entertainment, and Ireland is no exception.
People in Ireland are no strangers to gambling, and this predates the rise of online casinos. The Irish have always enjoyed placing bets with betting shops that have long been a part of their cultural fabric. Online casinos, however, are a different breed and Irish gamers need to ensure they select a site that is safe, secure and – more importantly –legitimate.
What to look for when playing at a new online casino in Ireland
As previously mentioned, there are many new online casinosites in Ireland, but the question remains: how does one select a safe, secure and legit site?
For starters, Ireland has a robust licensing process whereby regulators ensure that online casinos deliver the highest standards of fairness and security. It’s mandatory for all local and overseas operators to have a license should they want to cater to players based in Ireland.
What we have noticed with players when selecting an online casino is that they seem to focus on the welcome bonus. Yes, this is a drawcard, but does not guarantee the legitimacy of the site. There are several factors one must take into consideration before signing up, and we will look at them in more detail below:
Licensing and regulation
Before settling on a new online casino, always ensure it is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority, such as the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). Reputable online casinos will generally display their license/s on their websites, enabling you to verify their authenticity.
Safety
This is paramount; any new online casino you choose must have cutting-edge encryption protocols. Because if that’s not in place, all the other factors mean nothing. With robust security in place, you are assured that your personal and financial information is kept safe at all times from illicit third parties. Furthermore, you should also ensure you follow the basic security rules on your own computer, such as protected passwords etc.
Online casinos’ reputation
An online casino’s reputation is crucial; however, for a new online casino, there may not be much information available in the initial stages. If the casino has been running for a few months, be sure to read online casino and players’ reviews. This is because a bad reputation is a clear indication of the platform’s lack of reliability and quality of service. A few good reviews means it’s worth trying out.
Payment options
This is other important factor to take into account. Does theoperator offer local and reputable banking options that allow you to make deposits and withdrawals using the same account? Further to this, do the options include major credit and debit cards, e-wallet options like PayPal or Apple Pay, prepaid cards and cryptocurrency options? Some of the new online casinos also accept payments via mobile phone. Finally, always ensure the payment options are safe and secure.
Customer support
Always check to see what customer support avenues are offered, which should include being available 24/7 and options such as live chat, email support and telephone support.
Variety of games
For players who enjoy a variety of options, this will be high on the list of priorities. Once again, note that a huge library of casino games does not necessarily mean it’s a good casino to sign up at – particularly when the bulk of the games may not meet your budget or lack features, and the themes are not to your liking. It’s always best to check which software developers they have partnered with, and try the games in demo mode before signing up.
Software providers
The quality of games is often closely linked to the software provider. A good online casino will partner with software developers that offer users a high-quality gaming experience by collaborating with the best in their field, which will ensure you have a safe and fair gambling experience.
Bonuses and ongoing promotions
This is a key part of online gambling – it’s how the casinos,new and established, attract new customers to their site and retain their existing base and often increase your bankroll. Always read the bonuses’ terms and conditions and pay close attention to the wagering requirements attached to the available bonuses.
Withdrawal process
A safe, secure and reputable new online casino that ticks all the previous criteria will be put to the ultimate test, and that’s their deposit and withdrawal processes. Look for a new site that offers payment options that you are familiar and comfortable with. Also, ensure the deposits and withdrawals are speedy, without complex procedures, and check the fees. However, never risk safety over speed and unnecessary delays. After all, you don’t want the frustration of working for your winnings.
Mobile play and apps
In this fast-paced, technologically advanced world, the entire industry has moved to mobile gaming. Every new reputable online casino will offer a mobile-friendly platform,which should be intuitive and user-friendly. Some casinos have even gone as far as offering designated apps for users to install on their mobile devices.