Legitimate Poker Sites Online

1. Legitimate Poker Sites Online Store
2. Online Poker Scam
3. Legitimate Real Money Online Poker Sites
4. Are There Any Legit Online Poker Sites
5. Legit Online Poker Sites

Legitimate online casinos have been around since the 1990s, but it wasn't until the online gambling revolution of the early 2010s that they began to gain some mainstream recognition and widespread acceptance. Companies all over the world now offer online gambling on everything you can imagine. All popular casino games are now available online, and many sites have even begun offering live dealer games in an attempt to mimic brick-and-mortar casinos as closely as possible.

BetOnline has settled into a nice niche as one of the best online poker sites, offering quick payouts, new software, a very good mobile app, and decent cash game traffic. Although the players aren't quite as bad as they used to be, I've played poker at BetOnline.

This online poker casino lets you play poker online for real money. It's consistently rated as. We review the best legit poker sites so you can safely choose where to play real money poker online. Our top pick for March 2021 is Intertops Poker. Intertops Poker 2.

Not all online casinos are trustworthy, but the biggest brands—the ones that have been around for years and are trusted by millions of players—have invested heavily in security and customer service features to show their users how important they are. Online casinos are now at least as popular, if not more so than traditional retail casinos. This page will cover everything you need to know about legitimate online casinos, both in the U.S. and around the world, from their safety features to their betting options and more.

Safest Online Casinos In The US

Modern online casinos offer many important safety features to assure the satisfaction of their players. Gambling has been stigmatized in the U.S. for decades and companies understand that it is important to provide world-class safety to their players to assuage concerns. Nearly all major modern online casinos offer advanced encryption to protect player data, secure banking through cryptocurrency and wire transfers, and 24/7 customer service to deal with any and all problems.

Are Online Casinos In The US Legal?

Yes, online casinos are legal in the U.S. While only a handful of states license in-state online casino operators, international online casinos are available to players throughout the U.S. These international websites do not interfere with state or federal anti-gambling laws because they fall outside of both state and federal jurisdiction. American anti-gambling laws are designed to target providers rather than users, so individual gamblers have nothing to worry about. There are still age requirements to play with online casinos (generally 18+), and you must be able to prove your ID to collect winnings, but other than that, online casinos are fully legal.

How Do I Know If An Online Casino is Legitimate?

While legitimate online casinos almost always set themselves apart from their less legitimate counterparts in every aspect of their design, newer online gamblers might not know what to look for, which could lead them to sign up with an exploitative site. In order to avoid being scammed or abused by an illegitimate online casino, players should look for a few features that are hallmarks of safe and legitimate sites. Not only are they hallmarks of legitimacy, but these features are essential to creating an enjoyable online casino gaming experience at all.

The first thing to look at when you are evaluating the legitimacy of an online casino is its customer service support line. Legitimate online casinos offer advanced customer support through multiple lines of communication (phone, email, live chat, etc.) If a site doesn't offer customer support, it isn't holding itself accountable to its consumers. Legitimate major online casinos also must offer fast and easy banking through multiple transaction methods, including cryptocurrency, wire transfer, courier's checks, etc. Legitimate sites have large player bases that can attest to the site's quality. If an online casino doesn't appear to have any fans on the internet, its legitimacy is in doubt. Finally, if all else fails, check to see where the company is registered and how it is being licensed and regulated.

Legitimate Poker Sites Online Store

Fair Online Table Games

While some consumers view online casinos with distrust, if they are assessed based on payout rates, online casinos are fairer and more player-friendly than their retail counterparts. Online table games utilize algorithms that are strictly monitored to ensure fair payout rates at all times. Payout rates are often regulated by an online casinos country of operation to ensure that they aren't fleecing players. This usually isn't a concern because online operating costs are lower than those of brick-and-mortar casinos, and online casinos also generally have larger player bases. This allows them to offer better payout rates and operate on thinner margins.

Legit Online Slots

Online casinos can offer hundreds of different slots, all hosted on the same page. Legit online slots offer even more accessibility and flexibility than physical slot machines in retail casinos. Online slots will never be unavailable because they are in use by other players. Additionally, online slots players can adjust their bet levels without switching machines. The best benefit of legit online slots, however, is their increased payout rates. The operating costs of online slots are minuscule compared to physical machines, so they can afford to pay out at considerably higher rates.

Poker Sites That Are Safe

Online poker is one of the most popular recreational activities in the world, and major online poker sites can have millions of players each. Safe, legit poker sites feature the same qualities as legit online casinos, so they should be easy to spot once you know what to look for. Safe online poker providers usually operate through downloadable poker software that grants players access to games both against a computer dealer and against other players around the world. Most software is compatible with many variants of poker, but the most popular are Omaha, Hi/Lo, and Texas Hold ‘Em.

Are Live Dealers At Casinos Real?

Yes, live dealer games with online casinos actually connect you to a live dealer. Dealers are specifically chosen for their prior experience in the casino industry. Players are not connected through a video feed, but they can use a chat function to communicate with the dealer, who will reply in real-time. Live dealers are beneficial for players in two separate ways: 1) Live dealers are closer to the traditional casino gaming experience than the virtual games normally offered with online casinos. 2) Players skeptical about the algorithms that control virtual casino games get peace of mind when they can see the dealer using a real deck.

How To Make Legitimate Real Money Deposits Into An Online Casino

Online casinos work hard to make account funding as easy and accessible as possible. Money is the biggest source of stress for American citizens, so there's no reason to add to that with inadequate banking options. Depositing real money with legitimate online casinos can be done in a variety of ways. The most popular deposit options is probably cryptocurrency, which offers the fastest processing times, biggest deposit bonuses, and the most security for user data. Traditional credit and debit cards are also supported, although they can create additional hassle when withdrawing funds. Other less popular deposit methods include wire transfers and peer-to-peer funding transfers.

Legitimate Withdrawal Methods at Online Casinos

Withdrawal from online casinos is slightly more complicated than depositing money. U.S. federal banking laws prohibit banks from directly processing payments from international online casinos. This rules out withdrawal directly onto a credit or debit card. Instead, players have to either pay extra for a courier's check or wire transfer. Alternatively, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin can be used at little or no extra cost. Crypto transactions are processed almost instantly and can then be immediately transferred into a normal bank account. While crypto might be off-putting to some players who have seen the word ‘cryptocurrency' used as a scary buzz word, it is a widely used, safe, and trusted transaction method.

Are Mobile Online Casinos Secure?

Yes, legitimate online casinos invest heavily in their mobile gaming infrastructure to ensure world-class security for their players. If you are using unsecure public wi-fi, your data could be at risk, but there is nearly zero chance of having your information stolen from an actual online casino. These casinos employ advanced encryption technology and hire full teams of specialists to ensure that there are no flaws in their security. Mobile online casinos can securely access all the same features as desktop users. Mobile sites are even optimized for touch screen use, so they are a great option for casino gaming no matter where you are.

International online casinos are still legitimate even if they are not regulated in your state. Major online casinos are regulated by the government of the country they operate in, as well as by worldwide business standards for the online gambling industry. Still, be sure to check if they meet the standards of legitimacy outlined above up on this page.

Yes, you will be asked to provide proof of a valid, government-issued ID before withdrawing your winnings from a site. Players can create accounts without showing ID, but if ID can't be established while cashing out, winnings will be voided. For information on how to establish a valid ID, check an online casino's frequently asked questions.

All legit online casinos are regulated by their country of operation, and thus the legal gambling age is the same as it is in that country. For most legit online casinos, the legal gambling age is 18 years old. Users will need to be able to provide proof of age via a government-issued ID.

It depends on the casino, but many do offer full-service sports betting. Online sports betting absolutely dwarfs retail sports betting, and it is estimated that legitimate online casinos handle tens of billions of dollars in sports wagers every year. Legit casinos with sports betting often offer different odds on the same events, so you should consider signing up with multiple sites.

Legit online casinos are based out of many different countries. Some are even based out of the four American states with legal online casino gaming (Delaware, New Jersey, Nevada, and Pennsylvania). Popular locations for hosting online casinos include Costa Rica, Madagascar, Singapore, and affiliated but unincorporated territories like the Isle of Man.

Legal, regulated online poker sites in the US offer a safe game that you won't inherently find if you use offshore, unregulated (at least not by US gaming authorities) poker sites.

With that in mind, this guide will help you determine what exactly constitutes a safe online poker site. The goal is to help you sign up, deposit and play at only the most trusted and reliable poker sites.

When you play poker online for real money, safety and security are paramount. That includes ensuring:

• The game itself is fair.
• Your funds are always secure.
• Proper security is in place and persistent, effective efforts are in place to identify any hints of player collusion.

If you're worried about finding a safe poker site to play on, this page we'll answer all your questions including:

List of the safest poker sites for US players

The US online poker market consists of some of the most trusted names in online gaming. You can trust these major brands to offer you plenty of action in a secure and fair environment.

Among them will be many names you likely recognize including PokerStars, partypoker, WSOP, 888poker and Borgata Poker. If you don't live in a fully legalized and licensed online poker state, Global Poker is a trusted and safe sweepstakes poker site many players use.

So far, these are the operators that offer legal and safe real money online poker in the US:

1. PokerStars – $30 Free Play

• Available in Pennsylvania, Michigan and New Jersey.
• Largest online poker operator in the world.
• Great software, downloadable poker app
• Incredible tournament selection and variety with big guaranteed prize pools.
• Numerous promotions and major tournament series throughout the year
• Home Games feature to set up and play private poker games and tournaments with friends online
• First-class customer support team on call 24/7
• Industry-leading security protocols to monitor fair play & collusion

2. WSOP.com – $10 Free

• Available in New Jersey and Nevada.
• It shares a liquidity market in the two states and with 888poker in Delaware.
• The site uses partner 888poker's software.
• Offers online bracelet events and live WSOP event qualifiers.
• World-renowned brand with commitment to customer service and player protection

3. 888poker.com – $20 Free

• Available in New Jersey and Delaware.
• Remains the sole online poker operator in Delaware.
• Partners with WSOP on qualifiers.
• It's a proven international brand with excellent poker experience.

4. Partypoker/Borgata Poker/BetMGM – $25 Free

• Available in New Jersey and a leader in the industry.
• Both are major poker and gaming brands in New Jersey and abroad.
• Partypoker offers qualifiers for its live events.
• Borgata Poker & BetMGM Poker skins offer qualifiers to live events at the property.

Is Global Poker a safe, legal and legitimate online poker option?

If you're outside the regulated markets mentioned above, you have another option: Global Poker.

Online Poker Scam

This site is based on a poker sweepstakes model.Global Poker's sweepstakes license (like the one given to McDonald's Monopoly game) makes playing its free sweeps cash games legal in much of the US and Canada.

The site is based more on social gaming than traditional online poker. Players use virtual chips (Gold Coins) they can win for playing, but these don't have any cash value and they can't redeem them for USD.

However, when purchasing more Gold Coins, you also receive the site's sweepstakes currency called Sweeps Coins. This virtual currency can be used for Sweeps Coin tournaments and ring games. Unlike Gold Coins, accumulated Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for cash prizes.

Global Poker offers a safe and secure alternative for poker players. VGW Holdings Limited, a publicly traded company incorporated in Australia, owns Global Poker. The site is also licensed and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority.

Alongside the playing experience, excellent customer service and easy deposit and withdrawal methods have been confirmed with Global Poker. Like the regulated casino poker sites mentioned above, security and safety hasn't been a concern.

What is a safe poker site?

So what should you consider when getting started with online poker? Some signs will easily show a poker site is safe and regulated. Here's what to look for:

1. Safe poker sites are licensed and regulated by states

In the US, there are six states currently set for legalized online poker:

West Virginia online poker was also legalized in 2018/2019 but has not gone live yet. All six states feature a completely legal and regulated market overseen by state government authorities.

Just like traditional retail casinos and poker rooms, reliable online poker sites face strict licensing and regulation. The sites can only operate in complete compliance and enforcement.

2. Safe poker sites use proper technical security and geolocation

These regulations make your information and funds secure. Legal and licensed online casinos and poker sites have systems in place to offer numerous player protections that are required by state laws and regulations.

Legitimate Real Money Online Poker Sites

Geolocation software also makes sure all players are located within the legal jurisdiction. State regulators require this technology to keep the game safe from outside influences.

Another key security issue is the prevention of player collusion and gameplay issues like chip dumping. Each operator monitors gameplay in this way. Software monitoring commonly uncovers player collusion and discrepancies. It assures you of a safe and fair game of poker.

3. Safe poker sites have proper deposit and cash out methods

Along with gameplay, safe online poker sites ensure your funds are secure. That goes likewise for the deposit and cash out process. Whether you fund your account through e-check, debit card or another form of payment (e.g., some poker sites now accept PayPal), the licensed poker site ensures your personal information, account and other information are secure.

Players who use offshore, illegal poker sites will not encounter measures as stringent and have no way to know if their funds and information are safe. They also have little to no recourse if their funds are confiscated or their account is closed.

4. Safe poker sites have government oversight

Are There Any Legit Online Poker Sites

Poker sites in legalized US states are regulated by laws and rules enforced by those states' gaming commissions. This statute should give you a level of confidence in secure online poker rooms that don't come with using unregulated poker sites.

In the legalized states that can offer online poker, the regulating bodies are:

• Nevada Gaming Control Board
• New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
• Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
• Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement
• Michigan Gaming Control Board
• West Virginia Lottery Commission

The entities ensure that play is truly random through random number generators and that the game is fair for everyone playing. They also monitor to make sure payouts are made fairly and that operators follow proper and legal procedures.

5. Safe poker sites have proper channels for customer service and disputes

The gaming regulators in each state offer recourse for those who may have a complaint or dispute. Reputable poker sites also provide customer service support for those looking to ask a question or have an issue resolved.

Most operators offer several means to contact customer service and support, including:

• An FAQ section
• User help database
• Email support
• Live chat
• Customer service phone number

How do I know it's a safe and trustworthy poker site?

There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting an online poker operator. Beyond state regulators and gaming commissions, some other factors can help ensure numerous player protections:

• State-Approved Partnerships: Each online poker operator must have a live casino partner in each state. Casinos must meet extensive regulations, and this adds to player safety. It also gives you a local, trusted brand.
• Reputable Companies: In addition, most companies offering online poker within each state are trusted and proven brands. Many are also public companies and not the fly-by-night operations one might find in the offshore, unregulated market.
• Approvals and Inspections: Each legal site has a seal or statement somewhere on the home page, which indicates it is a regulated site. For example, PokerStars NJ has a link to the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement. These sites are regularly inspected and monitored by these commissions.
• Mainstream Deposit and Cash Out Methods: Along with being regulated and having casinos in the jurisdiction as partners, trusted online poker sites use accepted, mainstream deposit and withdrawal methods. Those include PayPal, e-checks, bank transfers, e-wallets, and debit and credit cards, among other options. Some even allow deposits at a casino partner's cashier cage. You can also expect quick turnarounds on withdrawals as well.
• Support and Customer Service: Reliable poker sites offer numerous ways to help with an issue or concern, from email and FAQ to live chat and a customer service phone number. Offshore operators might not provide this support.
• SSL Encryption: A critical focus in the security effort, secure sockets layer (SSL) is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a server and a client. It helps keep your player information private and safe.

How to download a safe online poker site and set up an account

Because of SSL and encryption technology, downloading a poker app or desktop-based poker client is exceptionally secure. The same goes for depositing and cashing out.

Unlike offshore and unregulated sites, legal online poker sites guarantee your funds are safe and secure. Trouble or long delays getting payouts are a common complaint about unregulated sites, but this is not an issue if you use regulated, secure and reliable poker sites as mentioned here.

Downloading is simple. Simply use any of the links above to get started, which will also allow you to take advantage of the listed free no deposit poker bonuses and the additional deposit match bonuses.

You then enter some necessary information like name, address, email, username and password. Once that's complete, you may have to confirm your identity and email.

Deposit and withdrawal methods at a legal online poker site

After getting an account set up, making a deposit is also a simple process. Reliable online poker sites offer several safe deposit methods, including:

• PayPal
• E-check bank payments (ACH transfers)
• Visa or Mastercard
• Wire payments
• E-wallets, such as Neteller and Skrill
• Cash at partner casinos

When cashing out your winnings, the process is safe and secure as well. You can receive your winnings back via the method you used to deposit.

Trusted poker sites offer fast and secure payouts through several options. Some offer a paper check option for payouts as well. Many even provide cash payouts from casino partners at the cashier cage.

What's one thing you don't have to worry about with a regulated site? Funds not being there or disappearing out of the blue.

Your funds are not intermingled with operator or casino funds at a secure, legal poker site. The money is held in separate accounts and available to you 24/7 so you can feel confident that your funds are safe.

Are poker apps safe?

As online poker has grown, the use of mobile phones and tablets has become an even more popular way to play in the last several years. All major safe US poker sites offer mobile poker apps for iPhone/iPad and Android devices with excellent app interfaces .

Secure poker app providers include:

Poker apps provide the same security as desktop poker clients. Apps must still meet tight regulations from each jurisdiction's gaming commission. Poker apps also include geolocation software to make sure every player is within the state offering legal online poker.

How do I keep my poker account secure?

Regulated and reliable online poker sites offer a secure environment for signing up, depositing, cashing out and playing. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that your online poker experience remains safe.

Here are a few security recommendations:

• Use proper security protocols when depositing.
• Be careful when playing on public Wi-Fi.
• Don't share usernames or passwords with anyone.
• Make passwords challenging to figure out.
• Don't leave a game open on a device or computer that's unattended.

How do I recognize an ‘unsafe' poker site?

This question is good to keep in mind when jumping into online poker for the first time. Many offshore poker sites will not offer any regulatory information or display the legal sealof an appropriate governing body or regulatory commission.

They may also feature more obscure website addresses and not be a well-known brand. Offshore operators may also make use of less scrupulous deposit methods, which come with many security concerns.

Some unregulated poker sites make it challenging to find where they are based. It is a red flag as to the site's legitimacy and security protocols. Your player funds may not be safe with these sites or using their deposit options.

You should never use a questionable deposit method. Also, transferring funds to players you don't know can be sketchy. Look out for these types of scams on unregulated poker sites.

Safest poker sites FAQ

After considering all these facts and concepts, here are some key ideas to remember:

What do I do if I think I'm playing on an unsafe poker site?

Research the site and determine if it's a legitimate US poker site. If not, look for a legal option, including those mentioned in this guide. You may want to withdraw your funds from an offshore site and use a legitimate, secure option.

Legit Online Poker Sites

How do I know if a poker site is reputable?

Make sure it's a legal US site by looking for signs that it's licensed by a state regulating body. However, beware of imposters that may represent themselves as a legal option. When in doubt, contact your state gaming commission to see if the site falls under its jurisdiction.

Is it safe to play against players from other countries?

Legal US online poker uses 'fenced-in' markets, and only players within specific states can play. Any site featuring players from other countries doesn't fall in line with American law. It can be a major security issue, and you should avoid these sites.

Are Bitcoin poker sites safe?

The first thing to look at when you are evaluating the legitimacy of an online casino is its customer service support line. Legitimate online casinos offer advanced customer support through multiple lines of communication (phone, email, live chat, etc.) If a site doesn't offer customer support, it isn't holding itself accountable to its consumers. Legitimate major online casinos also must offer fast and easy banking through multiple transaction methods, including cryptocurrency, wire transfer, courier's checks, etc. Legitimate sites have large player bases that can attest to the site's quality. If an online casino doesn't appear to have any fans on the internet, its legitimacy is in doubt. Finally, if all else fails, check to see where the company is registered and how it is being licensed and regulated.

Legitimate Poker Sites Online Store

Fair Online Table Games

While some consumers view online casinos with distrust, if they are assessed based on payout rates, online casinos are fairer and more player-friendly than their retail counterparts. Online table games utilize algorithms that are strictly monitored to ensure fair payout rates at all times. Payout rates are often regulated by an online casinos country of operation to ensure that they aren't fleecing players. This usually isn't a concern because online operating costs are lower than those of brick-and-mortar casinos, and online casinos also generally have larger player bases. This allows them to offer better payout rates and operate on thinner margins.

Legit Online Slots

Online casinos can offer hundreds of different slots, all hosted on the same page. Legit online slots offer even more accessibility and flexibility than physical slot machines in retail casinos. Online slots will never be unavailable because they are in use by other players. Additionally, online slots players can adjust their bet levels without switching machines. The best benefit of legit online slots, however, is their increased payout rates. The operating costs of online slots are minuscule compared to physical machines, so they can afford to pay out at considerably higher rates.

Poker Sites That Are Safe

Online poker is one of the most popular recreational activities in the world, and major online poker sites can have millions of players each. Safe, legit poker sites feature the same qualities as legit online casinos, so they should be easy to spot once you know what to look for. Safe online poker providers usually operate through downloadable poker software that grants players access to games both against a computer dealer and against other players around the world. Most software is compatible with many variants of poker, but the most popular are Omaha, Hi/Lo, and Texas Hold ‘Em.

Are Live Dealers At Casinos Real?

Yes, live dealer games with online casinos actually connect you to a live dealer. Dealers are specifically chosen for their prior experience in the casino industry. Players are not connected through a video feed, but they can use a chat function to communicate with the dealer, who will reply in real-time. Live dealers are beneficial for players in two separate ways: 1) Live dealers are closer to the traditional casino gaming experience than the virtual games normally offered with online casinos. 2) Players skeptical about the algorithms that control virtual casino games get peace of mind when they can see the dealer using a real deck.

How To Make Legitimate Real Money Deposits Into An Online Casino

Online casinos work hard to make account funding as easy and accessible as possible. Money is the biggest source of stress for American citizens, so there's no reason to add to that with inadequate banking options. Depositing real money with legitimate online casinos can be done in a variety of ways. The most popular deposit options is probably cryptocurrency, which offers the fastest processing times, biggest deposit bonuses, and the most security for user data. Traditional credit and debit cards are also supported, although they can create additional hassle when withdrawing funds. Other less popular deposit methods include wire transfers and peer-to-peer funding transfers.

Legitimate Withdrawal Methods at Online Casinos

Withdrawal from online casinos is slightly more complicated than depositing money. U.S. federal banking laws prohibit banks from directly processing payments from international online casinos. This rules out withdrawal directly onto a credit or debit card. Instead, players have to either pay extra for a courier's check or wire transfer. Alternatively, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin can be used at little or no extra cost. Crypto transactions are processed almost instantly and can then be immediately transferred into a normal bank account. While crypto might be off-putting to some players who have seen the word ‘cryptocurrency' used as a scary buzz word, it is a widely used, safe, and trusted transaction method.

Are Mobile Online Casinos Secure?

Yes, legitimate online casinos invest heavily in their mobile gaming infrastructure to ensure world-class security for their players. If you are using unsecure public wi-fi, your data could be at risk, but there is nearly zero chance of having your information stolen from an actual online casino. These casinos employ advanced encryption technology and hire full teams of specialists to ensure that there are no flaws in their security. Mobile online casinos can securely access all the same features as desktop users. Mobile sites are even optimized for touch screen use, so they are a great option for casino gaming no matter where you are.

International online casinos are still legitimate even if they are not regulated in your state. Major online casinos are regulated by the government of the country they operate in, as well as by worldwide business standards for the online gambling industry. Still, be sure to check if they meet the standards of legitimacy outlined above up on this page.

Yes, you will be asked to provide proof of a valid, government-issued ID before withdrawing your winnings from a site. Players can create accounts without showing ID, but if ID can't be established while cashing out, winnings will be voided. For information on how to establish a valid ID, check an online casino's frequently asked questions.

All legit online casinos are regulated by their country of operation, and thus the legal gambling age is the same as it is in that country. For most legit online casinos, the legal gambling age is 18 years old. Users will need to be able to provide proof of age via a government-issued ID.

It depends on the casino, but many do offer full-service sports betting. Online sports betting absolutely dwarfs retail sports betting, and it is estimated that legitimate online casinos handle tens of billions of dollars in sports wagers every year. Legit casinos with sports betting often offer different odds on the same events, so you should consider signing up with multiple sites.

Legit online casinos are based out of many different countries. Some are even based out of the four American states with legal online casino gaming (Delaware, New Jersey, Nevada, and Pennsylvania). Popular locations for hosting online casinos include Costa Rica, Madagascar, Singapore, and affiliated but unincorporated territories like the Isle of Man.

Legal, regulated online poker sites in the US offer a safe game that you won't inherently find if you use offshore, unregulated (at least not by US gaming authorities) poker sites.

With that in mind, this guide will help you determine what exactly constitutes a safe online poker site. The goal is to help you sign up, deposit and play at only the most trusted and reliable poker sites.

When you play poker online for real money, safety and security are paramount. That includes ensuring:

• The game itself is fair.
• Your funds are always secure.
• Proper security is in place and persistent, effective efforts are in place to identify any hints of player collusion.

If you're worried about finding a safe poker site to play on, this page we'll answer all your questions including:

List of the safest poker sites for US players

The US online poker market consists of some of the most trusted names in online gaming. You can trust these major brands to offer you plenty of action in a secure and fair environment.

Among them will be many names you likely recognize including PokerStars, partypoker, WSOP, 888poker and Borgata Poker. If you don't live in a fully legalized and licensed online poker state, Global Poker is a trusted and safe sweepstakes poker site many players use.

So far, these are the operators that offer legal and safe real money online poker in the US:

1. PokerStars – $30 Free Play

• Available in Pennsylvania, Michigan and New Jersey.
• Largest online poker operator in the world.
• Great software, downloadable poker app
• Incredible tournament selection and variety with big guaranteed prize pools.
• Numerous promotions and major tournament series throughout the year
• Home Games feature to set up and play private poker games and tournaments with friends online
• First-class customer support team on call 24/7
• Industry-leading security protocols to monitor fair play & collusion

2. WSOP.com – $10 Free

• Available in New Jersey and Nevada.
• It shares a liquidity market in the two states and with 888poker in Delaware.
• The site uses partner 888poker's software.
• Offers online bracelet events and live WSOP event qualifiers.
• World-renowned brand with commitment to customer service and player protection

3. 888poker.com – $20 Free

• Available in New Jersey and Delaware.
• Remains the sole online poker operator in Delaware.
• Partners with WSOP on qualifiers.
• It's a proven international brand with excellent poker experience.

4. Partypoker/Borgata Poker/BetMGM – $25 Free

• Available in New Jersey and a leader in the industry.
• Both are major poker and gaming brands in New Jersey and abroad.
• Partypoker offers qualifiers for its live events.
• Borgata Poker & BetMGM Poker skins offer qualifiers to live events at the property.

Is Global Poker a safe, legal and legitimate online poker option?

If you're outside the regulated markets mentioned above, you have another option: Global Poker.

Online Poker Scam

This site is based on a poker sweepstakes model.Global Poker's sweepstakes license (like the one given to McDonald's Monopoly game) makes playing its free sweeps cash games legal in much of the US and Canada.

The site is based more on social gaming than traditional online poker. Players use virtual chips (Gold Coins) they can win for playing, but these don't have any cash value and they can't redeem them for USD.

However, when purchasing more Gold Coins, you also receive the site's sweepstakes currency called Sweeps Coins. This virtual currency can be used for Sweeps Coin tournaments and ring games. Unlike Gold Coins, accumulated Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for cash prizes.

Global Poker offers a safe and secure alternative for poker players. VGW Holdings Limited, a publicly traded company incorporated in Australia, owns Global Poker. The site is also licensed and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority.

Alongside the playing experience, excellent customer service and easy deposit and withdrawal methods have been confirmed with Global Poker. Like the regulated casino poker sites mentioned above, security and safety hasn't been a concern.

What is a safe poker site?

So what should you consider when getting started with online poker? Some signs will easily show a poker site is safe and regulated. Here's what to look for:

1. Safe poker sites are licensed and regulated by states

In the US, there are six states currently set for legalized online poker:

West Virginia online poker was also legalized in 2018/2019 but has not gone live yet. All six states feature a completely legal and regulated market overseen by state government authorities.

Just like traditional retail casinos and poker rooms, reliable online poker sites face strict licensing and regulation. The sites can only operate in complete compliance and enforcement.

2. Safe poker sites use proper technical security and geolocation

These regulations make your information and funds secure. Legal and licensed online casinos and poker sites have systems in place to offer numerous player protections that are required by state laws and regulations.

Legitimate Real Money Online Poker Sites

Geolocation software also makes sure all players are located within the legal jurisdiction. State regulators require this technology to keep the game safe from outside influences.

Another key security issue is the prevention of player collusion and gameplay issues like chip dumping. Each operator monitors gameplay in this way. Software monitoring commonly uncovers player collusion and discrepancies. It assures you of a safe and fair game of poker.

3. Safe poker sites have proper deposit and cash out methods

Along with gameplay, safe online poker sites ensure your funds are secure. That goes likewise for the deposit and cash out process. Whether you fund your account through e-check, debit card or another form of payment (e.g., some poker sites now accept PayPal), the licensed poker site ensures your personal information, account and other information are secure.

Players who use offshore, illegal poker sites will not encounter measures as stringent and have no way to know if their funds and information are safe. They also have little to no recourse if their funds are confiscated or their account is closed.

4. Safe poker sites have government oversight

Are There Any Legit Online Poker Sites

Poker sites in legalized US states are regulated by laws and rules enforced by those states' gaming commissions. This statute should give you a level of confidence in secure online poker rooms that don't come with using unregulated poker sites.

In the legalized states that can offer online poker, the regulating bodies are:

• Nevada Gaming Control Board
• New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
• Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
• Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement
• Michigan Gaming Control Board
• West Virginia Lottery Commission

The entities ensure that play is truly random through random number generators and that the game is fair for everyone playing. They also monitor to make sure payouts are made fairly and that operators follow proper and legal procedures.

5. Safe poker sites have proper channels for customer service and disputes

The gaming regulators in each state offer recourse for those who may have a complaint or dispute. Reputable poker sites also provide customer service support for those looking to ask a question or have an issue resolved.

Most operators offer several means to contact customer service and support, including:

• An FAQ section
• User help database
• Email support
• Live chat
• Customer service phone number

How do I know it's a safe and trustworthy poker site?

There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting an online poker operator. Beyond state regulators and gaming commissions, some other factors can help ensure numerous player protections:

• State-Approved Partnerships: Each online poker operator must have a live casino partner in each state. Casinos must meet extensive regulations, and this adds to player safety. It also gives you a local, trusted brand.
• Reputable Companies: In addition, most companies offering online poker within each state are trusted and proven brands. Many are also public companies and not the fly-by-night operations one might find in the offshore, unregulated market.
• Approvals and Inspections: Each legal site has a seal or statement somewhere on the home page, which indicates it is a regulated site. For example, PokerStars NJ has a link to the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement. These sites are regularly inspected and monitored by these commissions.
• Mainstream Deposit and Cash Out Methods: Along with being regulated and having casinos in the jurisdiction as partners, trusted online poker sites use accepted, mainstream deposit and withdrawal methods. Those include PayPal, e-checks, bank transfers, e-wallets, and debit and credit cards, among other options. Some even allow deposits at a casino partner's cashier cage. You can also expect quick turnarounds on withdrawals as well.
• Support and Customer Service: Reliable poker sites offer numerous ways to help with an issue or concern, from email and FAQ to live chat and a customer service phone number. Offshore operators might not provide this support.
• SSL Encryption: A critical focus in the security effort, secure sockets layer (SSL) is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a server and a client. It helps keep your player information private and safe.

How to download a safe online poker site and set up an account

Because of SSL and encryption technology, downloading a poker app or desktop-based poker client is exceptionally secure. The same goes for depositing and cashing out.

Unlike offshore and unregulated sites, legal online poker sites guarantee your funds are safe and secure. Trouble or long delays getting payouts are a common complaint about unregulated sites, but this is not an issue if you use regulated, secure and reliable poker sites as mentioned here.

Downloading is simple. Simply use any of the links above to get started, which will also allow you to take advantage of the listed free no deposit poker bonuses and the additional deposit match bonuses.

You then enter some necessary information like name, address, email, username and password. Once that's complete, you may have to confirm your identity and email.

Deposit and withdrawal methods at a legal online poker site

After getting an account set up, making a deposit is also a simple process. Reliable online poker sites offer several safe deposit methods, including:

• PayPal
• E-check bank payments (ACH transfers)
• Visa or Mastercard
• Wire payments
• E-wallets, such as Neteller and Skrill
• Cash at partner casinos

When cashing out your winnings, the process is safe and secure as well. You can receive your winnings back via the method you used to deposit.

Trusted poker sites offer fast and secure payouts through several options. Some offer a paper check option for payouts as well. Many even provide cash payouts from casino partners at the cashier cage.

What's one thing you don't have to worry about with a regulated site? Funds not being there or disappearing out of the blue.

Your funds are not intermingled with operator or casino funds at a secure, legal poker site. The money is held in separate accounts and available to you 24/7 so you can feel confident that your funds are safe.

Are poker apps safe?

As online poker has grown, the use of mobile phones and tablets has become an even more popular way to play in the last several years. All major safe US poker sites offer mobile poker apps for iPhone/iPad and Android devices with excellent app interfaces .

Secure poker app providers include:

Poker apps provide the same security as desktop poker clients. Apps must still meet tight regulations from each jurisdiction's gaming commission. Poker apps also include geolocation software to make sure every player is within the state offering legal online poker.

How do I keep my poker account secure?

Regulated and reliable online poker sites offer a secure environment for signing up, depositing, cashing out and playing. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that your online poker experience remains safe.

Here are a few security recommendations:

• Use proper security protocols when depositing.
• Be careful when playing on public Wi-Fi.
• Don't share usernames or passwords with anyone.
• Make passwords challenging to figure out.
• Don't leave a game open on a device or computer that's unattended.

How do I recognize an ‘unsafe' poker site?

This question is good to keep in mind when jumping into online poker for the first time. Many offshore poker sites will not offer any regulatory information or display the legal sealof an appropriate governing body or regulatory commission.

They may also feature more obscure website addresses and not be a well-known brand. Offshore operators may also make use of less scrupulous deposit methods, which come with many security concerns.

Some unregulated poker sites make it challenging to find where they are based. It is a red flag as to the site's legitimacy and security protocols. Your player funds may not be safe with these sites or using their deposit options.

You should never use a questionable deposit method. Also, transferring funds to players you don't know can be sketchy. Look out for these types of scams on unregulated poker sites.

Safest poker sites FAQ

After considering all these facts and concepts, here are some key ideas to remember:

What do I do if I think I'm playing on an unsafe poker site?

Research the site and determine if it's a legitimate US poker site. If not, look for a legal option, including those mentioned in this guide. You may want to withdraw your funds from an offshore site and use a legitimate, secure option.

Legit Online Poker Sites

How do I know if a poker site is reputable?

Make sure it's a legal US site by looking for signs that it's licensed by a state regulating body. However, beware of imposters that may represent themselves as a legal option. When in doubt, contact your state gaming commission to see if the site falls under its jurisdiction.

Is it safe to play against players from other countries?

Legal US online poker uses 'fenced-in' markets, and only players within specific states can play. Any site featuring players from other countries doesn't fall in line with American law. It can be a major security issue, and you should avoid these sites.

Are Bitcoin poker sites safe?

Again, many of these sites use cryptocurrency to get around American law. Just because a site accepts a deposit doesn't mean that it's a legal, regulated site. Review this article for websites that are legal in the US, including sweepstakes poker sites like Global Poker.

Do I need to worry about viruses from poker sites?

Regulated online poker sites offer secure, safe environments. They meet rigorous licensing, technology and regulatory requirements to stay in business and to keep serving players. You will never download any malware or viruses from a legal and regulated poker site.