Online casinos have revolutionized the way that players are able to enjoy their favorite casino games, with convenience and accessibility being two huge factors that have been enjoyed widely.
Gone are the days when individuals had to go to a physical establishment to play, as they can now log on to their phones or computers and enjoy a session whenever they want. They are able to deposit funds quickly and securely and play in an instant.
However, with the rise of technology, there has been an emphasis on safety. Cyber attacks have been on the rise as criminals continue to target financial transactions that are made across a variety of industries. Given the amount of money that is spent and can be won across the iGaming industry, it is hardly a surprise that many cybercriminals are now targeting online casinos as a way of trying to obtain as much information and funds as possible.
Of course, while the threat always exists, online casino sites have implemented various security measures that can limit them and in some cases, completely eliminate them.
Below, Alex Windsor from Gamble-USA has given some handy tips for those looking to play safely online.
Make sure the site has encryption
One of the main security protocols an online casino will adopt when trying to keep their site and member information safe is in regard to encryption measures. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption is usually utilized throughout the website, as this can be the hardest form of security for hackers to breach due to how it works. Data is broken up into code and blocks, which make it harder to piece together, thus requiring extremely sophisticated software to try and hack.
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) can often be used when payments are made, and this is also very difficult for hackers to obtain. Even if they do, they require a key to read it.
Check for an SSL certificate
I already highlighted SSL encryption, but its importance can not be understated. It is used to establish secure connections between two or more devices on servers across the internet. It encrypts all the data that is sent, including payment data.
It is easy to identify whether it is being used, as a padlock will usually be possible to see in the URL address bar. If locked, it will show that the site is protected and will require a lot of effort by a hacker to break into if they want to try and steal any data. Given its capabilities, it is a common security protocol for online casinos, and one that is required in order for the operator to receive the best gaming licenses. Before playing, always check for a valid SSL certificate.
Use Two-Factor Authentication where possible
There is no denying that two-factor authentication can be a bit of a nuisance and annoyance at times, but it is a technique that has proven incredibly valuable when trying to be secure online. It requires users to enter a password and then another form of identification to access their accounts.
As a result, it reduces the chances of a hack from being experienced, as another layer of security has been added that can then be confirmed by the end user. If a password is stolen, then not all is lost with this method, and a quick password change can then suffice.
I would recommend setting up TFA on any account you can to help you cover your accounts online.
Keep an eye out for anything unusual
Online gaming can often become the target for criminals looking to gain money or information from accounts. They attempt to cheat by manipulating games to alter outcomes or receive payouts that look legitimate; but online casinos are equipped with fraud detection technologies which enable them to recognize suspicious activities before it's too late – using big data analysis of player traits, information on deposits/withdrawals made, IP addresses with suspicious logins, etc. to guarantee financial and player security.
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay vigilant and if any offer looks too good, then walk away.
Final Thoughts
There are numerous ways in which the online gaming industry continues to safeguard financial transactions that are made. Technology has created various security protocols that can help to enhance the security that is offered and make it more difficult for hackers to steal money or information that can lead to them obtaining any funds, such as bank account details.
Players should always look to make sure the highest level of security is offered, too, but they should also make sure they act with caution at the same time. There is a lot that they can do in tandem with an online casino, especially when it comes to keeping safe.
