It’s safe to say that the internet has brought many improvements into people’s lives and largely been a positive experience. It’s now easier than ever to share your life with relatives and friends who live a long way away, shop for unique gifts, and research new skills. The internet has also brought about a revolution in the way people access entertainment, with online games, streaming tv services, and cloud servers.
The game of bingo has benefitted hugely from the internet, evolving from what was seen as a game for pensioners into one of the most played games by those under 40. This is all thanks to online bingo sites like www.winkbingo.com, who offer online games where players can win real money, often with bingo cards costing just a few pence. It’s estimated that there are 4 million bingo players worldwide who use online sites on a regular basis, showing just how popular the modern versions of this traditional game are.
Why do you have to be Safe Online?
The internet is not without its problems though. With so much information floating about online it has become easier for unscrupulous people to steal. When you buy items online you often give out your address details and your debit card details, and if these aren’t stored safely then you might find yourself a victim of identity fraud.
There are also unsafe websites which take money from you and then don’t provide the items or services they promise. Any complaints will be ignored, and you’ll find it nearly impossible to get the issue sorted out. These are the internet’s equivalent of backstreet traders, but to the untrained eye they look completely legitimate.
Using Safe and Genuine Websites
When looking for a bingo site there are a few ways you can check that you are choosing a reputable provider. Have a quick search online and see what other users say about the company. Current customers will be able to tell you about the experience of playing at that site, whether the customers service is good, how friendly the players are in the chat, etc. You will also quickly find out whether the site has a bad reputation, because disgruntled customers are quick to warn others.
The UK requires all online gambling sites to pass rigorous checks before being granted a license to operate. These sites can then display the UKGC mark of approval on their homepage, so you know they are a safe operator. Part of the check includes offering secure payment methods and responsible gambling safeguards, as well as maintaining good standards of customer care and ensuring the outcomes of all games are entirely random.
Secure Payment Methods
The easiest way to have your data stolen online is to make online purchases. There are things you can do to make your transactions safer, like not sending your details over public or unsecured WiFi. You can also opt to use an online wallet, like PayPal or GooglePay as a middleman in the transaction. You store your bank and card details in your online wallet, rather than entering them into every website you use. When you make a deposit, you only have to give the details of your wallet, so your bank details stay in one place.
If you have to you a card, it’s better to use a credit card because the firms themselves offer better security over purchases and easier ways to claim back stolen money. If a website doesn’t accept credit card payments, it’s a sign to step away.
Positive User Experience
Online bingo sites thrive on repeat business, so they should aim to make playing there a positive experience for their customers. This means making the sites easy to use and easy to customise. Many of them ask their players to create accounts so that they can opt in or out of various options. You might not want to be bombarded with email offers every day, and a good website will allow you to take control of how they contact you and how often so that you don’t feel harassed.
Many online bingo sites offer chat functions so that you can socialise while playing. Some people enjoy this; it lets them meet new people who share their enthusiasm for the game and it a great place to make friends. However, other people don’t want to be interrupted by messages and would prefer the option to turn this off. Being able to design how you use the site and which functions you access gives players a better experience and means you don’t have to worry about anyone contacting you if you don’t want it.
In Summary
Playing bingo online can be a great way to enjoy the game. Not only can you meet new people who share your passion, but you can also take the game anywhere. Play from the comfort of your own house, while commuting to work, even sat in the dentist’s waiting room. But the fun of online bingo can be spoiled if you don’t play safely. Always make sure you use sites with a good reputation by searching the internet for reviews before you sign up. Only use secure payment methods like online wallets and encrypted card transactions and check your accounts regularly for evidence of frauds.
