1) You can verify the licence (not just a logo)
Legitimate operators publish their licence details and a link or number you can check on the regulator’s public register. In Great Britain, use the UK Gambling Commission’s Public Register; it also lists regulatory actions. Malta’s MGA provides a searchable Licensee Register. Curaçao’s reformed regime under the LOK includes an official licence portal for online gaming. Licensed sites must also verify your identity before you’re allowed to gamble—expect name, address and date of birth checks.
2) Withdrawals and terms are fair and transparent
Safe sites make it clear that you can withdraw your deposit balance without unfair hurdles, and they avoid practices regulators call unfair—like only investigating payment methods at the point of withdrawal. The UK regulator sets explicit rules on withdrawals, and reminds operators they must treat customers fairly in their terms. Read the T&Cs, then do a small test withdrawal before committing bigger sums.
3) Game outcomes are audited—or “provably fair” on-chain
For traditional online casino games, look for independent RNG certifications (e.g., eCOGRA, Gaming Labs International) and references to standards like GLI-19 for interactive gaming systems. For Web3/crypto games, prefer verifiable randomness on-chain (for example, Chainlink VRF, which returns randomness plus a cryptographic proof that smart contracts verify before using the result). Reputable casinos explain their fairness model and link to certificates or contract docs.
4) Real consumer protections: fund safety, limits, and self-exclusion
Trustworthy sites disclose how customer funds are protected if the business fails—UK rules require a clear rating (e.g., not protected, medium, or high protection) in T&Cs and at deposit. Safer-gambling tools should be easy to find: deposit limits, time-outs, and reality checks. In Great Britain, licensed online operators must participate in GAMSTOP, the multi-operator self-exclusion scheme.
5) Security and compliance signals are visible (and verifiable)
On decentralized apps, serious operators verify smart-contract source code (e.g., via Sourcify) so users and auditors can inspect it. If the casino takes custody of crypto, look for independent Proof of Reserve monitoring. Professional operators also use transaction monitoring/KYT to screen deposits and withdrawals for sanctions and illicit-flow risk—another clue you’re dealing with a compliant business.
Quick red flags to avoid
No licence you can verify on a regulator’s register, evasive or punitive withdrawal terms, no RNG certificate or on-chain randomness proof, no information on funds protection, and no mention of complaints/ADR routes (e.g., IBAS for GB customers).
How to vet a crypto casino in 7 minutes (checklist)
- Search the regulator’s public register for the exact brand/domain.
- Scan T&Cs for withdrawal rules and bonus restrictions; do a small test cash-out.
- Find RNG certificates or on-chain fairness documentation.
- Check the site’s customer-funds protection level and how it’s implemented.
- Locate safer-gambling tools; if you’re in GB, confirm GAMSTOP participation.
- If it’s a dapp, confirm verified contracts; if it’s custodial, look for PoR updates.
- Note the complaints route/ADR and save support contacts before you play.
What to do if things go wrong
Follow the operator’s complaints process; if unresolved after 8 weeks, escalate to an approved ADR (e.g., IBAS for GB). Keep copies of chats, emails, and transaction IDs.
FAQs
How do I verify a casino’s licence quickly?
Use the regulator’s public register (UKGC for Great Britain, MGA for Malta, Curaçao licence portal under LOK). Search by business name, trading name, or domain.
Is KYC required at crypto casinos?
Yes for licensed operators. The UKGC requires identity verification before gambling; similar AML/KYC expectations apply in Malta via FIAU Implementing Procedures for remote gaming.
What proves a Web3 game is “provably fair”?
Documentation of the randomness source and verification—e.g., Chainlink VRF publishes a proof that’s checked on-chain before use.
How can I tell if my funds are protected?
UK-licensed sites must disclose a rating (not protected/medium/high) in T&Cs and at deposit, with examples of wording. Prefer higher protection where possible.
Who handles disputes in Great Britain?
Approved ADR bodies do. IBAS is the main gambling-specialist ADR listed by the UKGC.
