Choosing a safe online casino is crucial, especially as it is easier than ever to set up scams to trick Brits.
We decided to contact one of the iGaming industry’s best-regarded experts, Christoffer Ødegåden, from the popular UK comparison site Bojoko.com, to hear more about how to gamble in a secure environment, the role of regulation, and the best ways to identify reputable operators.
For players starting their search, Ødegården’s first advice is simple: “Always ensure the casino is UK-licensed. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is one of the world’s most reliable and strict regulatory bodies. If you see the UKGC logo, that’s a huge reassurance. It means the casino is following strict rules about fairness, security, and, importantly, protecting players’ funds,” he explains.
“The UKGC also ensures that operators are regularly audited for game fairness, so players can rest easy knowing that the odds are legitimate.”
However, licensing is just the beginning. Ødegården mentions that players should pay attention to several other critical factors.
“Always check out reviews from both experts and users. If a casino is getting a lot of negative comments about withdrawals or customer service, it’s worth looking elsewhere. A trustworthy casino will have positive feedback and a solid track record.”
Ødegården also stresses the importance of third-party certifications. “When you see a certification from an independent testing agency like eCOGRA or GLI, it means the casino’s games have been tested for fairness. It’s another level of reassurance for players,” he adds. “It’s a great way to double-check that the games are fair and random, ensuring that the casino does things by the book.”
“A question I often get is, are online casinos safe? It’s a valid concern. The truth is that most licensed online casinos are incredibly safe. The key is knowing where to look and which casinos to trust,” he says.
He adds that one thing Bojoko does is create an overview of casinos their experts have deemed safe and trustworthy, this being checks beyond basic licensing, but looking at how safe and transparent they are in general.
“While this will sound like a plug, I do strongly believe that by using resources that highlight trusted casinos, you’re putting yourself in a better position to enjoy a secure gambling experience. This way, you can easily make informed choices, know what to expect, and ensure you’re playing at reputable, regulated casinos.”
As we discuss the role of the UK Gambling Commission, Ødegården highlights how their regulations ensure fair gameplay and actively promote responsible gambling. “The UKGC’s guidelines are designed with the player’s welfare in mind. Casinos are required to provide players with tools to manage their gambling, such as deposit limits, the option to take breaks, or even self-exclusion if things get out of hand. For players, this means they’re gambling in a safer environment that actively encourages responsible behaviour.”
Ødegården has seen a significant shift towards improving the overall transparency of online casinos. “The industry is constantly evolving, and casinos are now much more aware of the importance of providing clear information. Players now have more access to responsible gambling tools, detailed terms and conditions, and transparent payment processes than ever before,” he says.
When asked how players can make sure they’re choosing a reputable casino, Ødegården recommends a few steps to simplify the process. “Start by checking the licensing, then review the payment security. But also look at how well the casino handles customer service. If a casino has a well-established customer support team that’s easy to contact, you’re on the right track. But if reaching them is like pulling teeth, it’s time to move on,” he suggests.
While many players focus on bonuses and promotions, Ødegården advises caution. “Big bonuses can be tempting, but you must look at the terms. Some casinos offer massive bonuses that look too good to be true, and in many cases, they come with huge wagering requirements. So, always make sure to read the fine print,” he advises.
“A big bonus can be a great deal, but only if you understand how to unlock it. Be cautious of casinos that seem to be offering unrealistic deals.”
For players unfamiliar with navigating the world of online casinos, Ødegården recommends taking a cautious, educated approach. “If you’re new to online gambling, it can feel overwhelming at first. My advice is to take your time. Don’t just sign up for the first casino that comes up in your search results. Do some research, check licensing, compare a few options, and read the reviews before committing. Use platforms that focus on highlighting trusted, licensed casinos so you can feel confident in your choices.”
Ødegården’s final piece of advice is simple but important: “Online gambling should be fun, and safety has to come first. If you choose a licensed casino, take the time to understand its security measures, and use the responsible gambling tools available, you’ll have a great and secure experience. If that is not in place, a fun experience can quickly go downhill.”
Written by Jennifer Carter
