An online casino is a website or app that offers players the opportunity to place wagers on various gambling games via the internet. These websites often offer the same types of casino games found in traditional land-based casinos and are regulated by government bodies to ensure player safety and fairness. In addition to offering a variety of casino games, most online casinos offer a range of recurring promotions and bonuses to keep players engaged.
In an online casino, the results of games are determined by random events – whether it is the turn of a card, spin of a wheel or roll of a dice. While some games require skill, the overall outcome is determined by luck and the house will always have an advantage over the player. This makes online casinos a form of gambling where the odds are always against you.
Online casino gaming can be accessed from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. Almost all the same games that are available in physical casinos can be found online and some sites even have live dealer tables. There are a wide variety of casino games to choose from including blackjack, roulette, video poker, baccarat, craps and more. Online casinos can be divided into two categories based on the software they use: web-based and download-only.
Licensed online casinos are regulated by an official authority and use encryption to protect personal information. They are also tested for fairness and have their payouts audited. If you’re unsure about an online casino, look for seals of approval from regulators such as eCOGRA and PriceWaterhouseCoopers. These seals are a good indication that the casino is safe to play.
A legal online casino should be licensed in the state where it’s based and offer real money gaming to players. These casinos must also offer a variety of secure payment methods. These include online banking, credit and debit cards and pre-purchased gift cards. Licensed online casinos should also display their licensing details at the bottom of their site.
US players have a large number of legal online casinos to choose from. These include DraftKings and FanDuel-powered Mohegan Sun, as well as online casinos operated by Caesars, New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. These sites have been vetted by our team and provide a great online gambling experience.
If you’re looking for a legal casino online, check out our list of recommended sites below. Each one has been vetted by our expert review panel. We’ve also included a list of the most popular online casino games to help you find the perfect game for you. We’ve also listed some of the best welcome bonuses available to new players.