Online poker is no different from the ones played at the casino. The only difference of course is that people play online via the computer.

Is this game safe compared to the regular game played in the casino? The answer to this question is, it depends.

Not all of these online casinos play fair. Some of these are scams that are to launch viruses that can damage the computer of the user. There are also those who steal money from the player.

Some sites have been reported not to give the winnings to the player. The online casino does this on purpose in hopes of winning the money back.

Some sites may not also be safe to play in should there be colluding among the players. If the person suspects any activity, it is advisable to contact support immediately. The operators of the site can check it out since the computer keeps a record of the hands of each player. Some sites have software to do this that can check for any suspicious activity.

Should the person still want to play being fully aware of the risks, here are some tips to avoid being a victim of these sites;

1. Some sites offer free demos. The player should download this to see how well the software is and how good are the graphics.

2. After downloading, it is best to watch a few rounds. The person can check if there are enough tables for the limits that one wants to play.

3. Should the person be interested in tournaments, it is best to check if the site offers Freeroll. This will enable the player to win money to get the account started.

4. The most important thing to do before signing on a site is doing a background check. The person can ask other players if winnings were paid back in a timely manner. This can also be done by logging on the Poker newsgroup that posts information of the site that is being inquired.

Online poker can be played either by downloading it into the computer or playing it through the browser. Either way, the player should first check if the program is compatible. It is also advisable to scan the program for viruses since this could damage the computer.

There are a lot of sites to choose from that can be a lot of fun. If there is more than one site that looks good, then there is no harm in playing on all of them. The player has to be prepared to win some money and lose some.

Gambling sure has changed in the 20th century. The developments in technology have made it easier for people to gamble in the comforts of home rather than driving to the casino to have some fun.

The risks of playing online poker are a bit different than the ones that are normally seen on the tables. The individual does not see how the other players are reacting which could give an indication of winning that hand or not. Winnings may not be given immediately after each round.

If the site that the person has found turns out to be legitimate, then this site is a safe place to play online poker. Should the site be a bad one, then it is not. The player has to take a chance of finding the right site in order to play cards.

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of My Poker Tips. Claire provides more information on her site about Hold'em Poker that you can research at home.