As with any kind of online transaction, players need to be aware of the security risks when money is involved. While most online bingo providers are regulated and provide a fair, even and safe service, there are those that don’t play by the rules. 

Online bingo sites need to include a random number generator (RNG) as part of their programming to ensure all draws are random. However, there have been cases of some games using corrupted programmes to cheat consumers.

Here’s what players should look for when making a selection of online bingo games provider.

Trust Indicators 

Players should follow a set of trust indicators and protocols to ensure the site they re using is secure, including:

  • Using sites with recognisable names and brands.
  • Companies registered in the UK and with regulatory bodies.
  • Sites with SSL certificates.
  • Sites that have won recognisable awards.

Check licensing information at the bottom of the page.

Find the dispute resolution information on their site and sections about responsible gambling.

Read the term and conditions.

As is the case in much social media and online interaction, more numbers breeds confidence. Players are more likely to join a game with 500 players than they are one with five. So increasing numbers becomes part of a successful gaming strategy.

Player Liquidity

Online and free bingo sites realise that the more players a game has, the bigger the jackpots and the more attractive it is to other players. This means it is in a site’s interest to create a fun, welcoming and enticing game for players.

 As is the case in much social media and online interaction, more numbers breeds confidence. Players are more likely to join a game with 500 players than they are one with five. So increasing numbers becomes part of a successful gaming strategy.

Gambling Regulators

After the initial success of online bingo and flurry of unregulated sites, there was a need for regulation. A number of licence providers were created to regulate the industry, ensuring game providers are offering a secure and fair service, and using an RNG.

Licensing

The main industry regulators are licencing agencies, which for UK based companies includes:

  • The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission - Grade A
  • The Gibraltar Licencing Authority – Grade A
  • The Alderney Gambling Control Commission – B+ Rated
  • The Lotteries and Gaming Authority of Malta – Grade B
All of these licensing agencies are authorised by the UK Gambling Commission under the 2005 Gambling Act. They also ensure that all players are over 18 and that all information is protected and operators are financially secure.