Should I use a VPN for online gambling?

As people become more security conscious when using the Internet, the use of VPNs (virtual private networks) have become standard practice for many online users. For those not in the know, we explain exactly what a VPN is and why it is a smart service to consider using when gambling for real money on the Internet.

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What is a virtual private network?

A VPN is an online service that gives users an extra layer of security when using the Internet. It also helps get around any region-blocks, which is when a website or specific content has been blocked for access within your country. Overall, VPNs are most commonly used for added protection when using the Web, but they also offer other advantages.

How does a VPN work?

Without getting too technical, the most basic explanation of how a VPN works is that it masks your IP (internet protocol) address when you are using the Internet. An IP address is what is linked to all your online activity, kind of like the same way you may put your return address on an envelope when sending out mail in the post. Your IP address helps identify your location and identity when you are accessing websites or services over the Internet, and a VPN helps disguise that information.

Usually when you connect to the Internet, you do so via your local Internet service provider (ISP) which is the company you pay for your Internet connection. Your ISP acts as a sort of middleman, connecting you to the websites and online services you wish to utilise, while also keeping a record of all your online activity.

When you choose to connect to the Internet using a trusted VPN provider, you skip past your ISP and connect directly to the VPN server via “secret” tunnels, essentially encrypting all of the information you send online so your activity can’t be recorded by your ISP.

Who uses VPNs?

Connecting to the Internet by a VPN server may sound like a shifty move used only by people who have something to hide when searching the Internet, but VPNs are common everyday practice for those who are wary about their online security and would like the peace of mind that an extra layer of security provides. VPNs help keep your private information safe from the prying eyes of hackers or other users who may be hunting around for financial details or any other information. They are highly recommended for anyone who is using a shared or public Wi-Fi connection to help ensure no other users on that connection can see your private information.

VPNs can help users login to closed networks, for example, if you need to login to your work’s intranet system when using a computer located outside of the office network. They can help get around blocked content, like if you are using a computer in a school or university setting and certain websites are restricted to safeguard minors.

Why you should consider using a VPN at an online casino

Given all the benefits discussed above, VPNs are becoming extremely popular with online gamblers as they provide multiple benefits:

1. Players can securely make real money deposits and withdrawals to an online casino vendor without concern that their financial details will be intercepted by another user. Our recommended casinos do ensure this standard level of safety with the use of SSL (secure socket layer) digital encryption security, but an extra layer of protection never hurt anyone.
2. Some games and casino sites are blocked from some players due to certain region restrictions set by individual countries. Using a VPN can allow you to appear as though you are playing from a country other than your own, allowing you to get access to content you would otherwise be restricted from.
3. If you are playing from a country that restricts online gambling under local laws but you insist on gambling online regardless, a VPN will help protect your identity.

Note: We in no way promote online gambling in any country where such activity is deemed illegal. It is entirely up to you as an individual to be aware of the online gambling laws that apply to you and act accordingly. All information provided on our website is for information purposes only.

How to use a VPN when gambling online

To use a VPN when gambling online, you must first choose a safe and trusted VPN service. There are literally hundreds of providers offering virtual private networks on the Internet, so it is important to do your research and find out which ones can be trusted and which ones to avoid. The whole point of using a VPN is to get more safety when using the Internet, so it is vital you choose a reliable provider.

A quick Google search will be able to help, as there are many detailed reviews comparing the top-rated VPN providers, including both free and paid services. Some of the most esteemed VPNs include IPVanish, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, TunnelBear, PureVPN, Cyber Ghost and Private Internet Access (PIA), although there are many others out there.

Once you have chosen your VPN provider and signed up for an account, login to your VPN account accordingly and follow the prompts to select the country you would like to appear to be playing from. If you change your location settings, be mindful that you may get more or less access to certain casino sites and games depending on the VPN server location you chose.

From here, you can play at your favourite online casinos just as you always would, with no notable difference unless you are accessing games that were otherwise blocked by your ISP. The only major difference is that you are now playing while enjoying an added layer of online security.

Safe online casinos to use a VPN

When using a VPN, all the same rules should apply when it comes to choosing a safe and reputable casino site to play at. Just because you are protected by an extra layer of online protection, this doesn’t mean you should start playing at dodgy or blacklisted sites, as you will still be vulnerable to the risks those rogue venues present. Whether or not you are using a VPN, always stick with the tested, secure and certified online casinos recommended across our website to ensure you are playing in a safe and audited environment.

For a full list of the best online casinos catering to players from your country, refer to our casino table at the top of this page. This list of casinos has been geo-targeted to recognise your location and only recommend safe, trustworthy casino sites that accept players from your area. Sign up using our links to get some great new player welcome bonuses, or read our detailed casino reviews for further information. We recommend Slots.lv as our top-rated casino site for players from United States, which has some excellent welcome bonuses available for new players along with a great range of casino games to choose from.