This page explains how online gambling works, how operators are licensed, and what steps you should take to stay safe while playing. We created this guide to help players understand the rules, risks, and responsibilities associated with online gambling. It also outlines our commitment as an independent comparison site.
1. What Online Gambling Is
Online gambling includes any activity where you stake money (or items of value) for the chance to win more. Common forms include:
- Online casinos (slots, table games, live dealers)
- Sports betting
- Poker rooms
- Lottery or bingo games
- Virtual sports and esports betting
These products are legally regulated, and in most countries, only licensed operators can offer them.
2. How Online Gambling Licensing Works
Every legal gambling operator must hold at least one valid gambling licence from a recognised regulatory authority. Licences ensure that the operator:
- Uses approved and independently tested software
- Ensures fair game outcomes (RNG testing, RTP auditing)
- Verifies user age and identity
- Follows anti-money-laundering (AML) regulations
- Provides responsible-gambling tools
- Protects customer funds and personal data
- Operates transparently and fairly
Common Licensing Authorities
Depending on your country, operators may be licensed by organisations such as:
- UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
- Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner
- Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission
- Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen)
- Danish Gambling Authority
- New Jersey DGE, Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (US)
- Ontario AGCO (Canada)
- Local EU state gambling regulators
Licensing standards vary. Some jurisdictions are stricter and offer stronger consumer protection.
3. How We Choose and Compare Operators
We are an independent affiliate website. Our role is to:
- Research licensed gambling operators
- Review their safety, fairness, bonuses, games, and features
- Compare them objectively
- Present accurate, up-to-date information
- Help players choose operators that meet strong regulatory and safety standards
We do not operate gambling services, run games, or process payments.
Our selection criteria include:
- Licensing status and regulatory reputation
- Game fairness and testing certificates
- Bonus transparency and terms
- Customer support standards
- Payment speed and withdrawal conditions
- Player protection tools
- Global/local market availability
We only list operators that are licensed and permitted in at least one regulated market.
4. Your Responsibilities as a Player
Gambling is a personal choice, but it comes with responsibility. To stay safe:
Check legality in your region
Gambling laws vary widely between countries and even states.
Some operators on our website may not be available in your location.
Always ensure that online gambling is legal where you live before registering.
Only use licensed operators
Using unlicensed or “offshore” websites can expose you to:
- Unfair game outcomes
- Withheld withdrawals
- No player protection
- No legal recourse
A licensed operator gives you consumer rights.
Protect your financial limits
Before gambling, decide:
- How much you are willing to spend
- How often you want to play
- When to stop
Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
Protect your personal data
Use strong passwords and avoid creating accounts on suspicious or unverified platforms.
5. Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.
To maintain healthy habits, consider the following:
Safe Gambling Tips
- Set deposit/spending limits
- Take regular breaks
- Avoid gambling when tired or stressed
- Do not chase losses
- Treat gambling as entertainment, not income
- Understand bonus terms before participating
Self-Assessment Questions
You may be developing a gambling issue if you:
- Spend more than you intended
- Hide your gambling behaviour
- Chase losses repeatedly
- Feel anxious when not gambling
- Gamble to escape problems or stress
If any of these apply, seek support immediately.
6. Responsible Gambling Tools Provided by Operators
Licensed operators typically offer:
- Deposit limits
- Time/session reminders
- Loss limits
- Wagering limits
- Self-exclusion options
- Cooling-off periods
- Access to account history
These tools help players stay in control.
7. Where to Get Help
If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact your local support organisation:
- GamCare (UK): gamcare.org.uk
- BeGambleAware (UK): begambleaware.org
- Gambling Therapy (International): gamblingtherapy.org
- NCPG (USA): ncpgambling.org
- Your local national gambling helpline
You can also use tools like GAMSTOP (UK) or Self-Exclusion Registers (various countries).
8. Affiliate Disclosure
We may receive a commission from operators featured on our website.
This does not influence our rankings, reviews, or recommendations.
We aim to provide fair, transparent, and unbiased information.
9. Availability & Regional Restrictions
Because gambling laws differ around the world:
- Some operators may not accept players from your country
- Certain promotions or bonuses may not apply in your region
- Local laws may restrict or prohibit online gambling
- Geo-blocking may be used by operators to comply with local regulation
Always check your local rules before signing up or depositing.
10. Our Commitment to Players
We are committed to:
- Promoting safe, legal, and responsible gambling
- Only listing licensed and legitimate operators
- Providing accurate, regularly updated information
- Helping players make informed decisions
- Supporting a healthy online gambling environment
Your safety, privacy, and well-being are our priority.