In 2022, the global iGaming market was valued at 63.53 billion USD. According to Grand View Research, this astronomic number is only expected to continue rising at an annual growth rate of 11.7% from 2023 to 2030. Every day, millions of players worldwide sign up for online casinos and sportsbook sites and trust these operators with their sensitive data, which often includes their financial details. In what follows, we discuss the various technologies and data security measures that iGaming platforms implement to safeguard their customers’ information.
Data encryption
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security protocol that establishes an encrypted connection between a web server and a browser. It ensures that any data transmitted between the two is secure and protected from interception, eavesdropping, and tampering.
When entering your full name, address, and credit card information on an operator’s website, this data is transferred to a database. SSL technology then secures this process by transforming the information into an encrypted code that is extremely challenging to decipher. In addition, SSL provides communication authentication and digitally signs data to prevent any unauthorized access before it reaches its intended recipient.
A lack of SSL technology would mean hackers could intercept data exchanged between you and online casinos. This is why leading gambling sites utilize SSL to encrypt all data transmitted over the web, ensuring its confidentiality and protection from unauthorized access.
Firewalls
A firewall is a security tool that monitors and controls the network traffic flowing in and out of a device or network. It uses predefined rules to filter and block unauthorized access, potentially malicious traffic and prevent network attacks. Firewalls can be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination. All reputable online casinos and sportsbooks utilize firewalls to safeguard their computer systems and networks from unauthorized access or potential attacks.
Secure payment methods
Online casinos use secure payment methods to protect their customers’ financial and personal information from theft or unauthorized access. Such platforms understand that customers expect their sensitive data to be confidential and secure. Hence, secure payment methods, such as online bank transfers and digital wallets like PayPal, ensure that all financial transactions are processed securely and reliably.
These measures are highly important as they help to prevent data breaches, fraud, and other malicious activities that could compromise the integrity of the casino’s operations and damage its reputation. Additionally, regulatory bodies often require secure payment methods to ensure online gambling sites’ proper and safe operation and help customers successfully retrieve their winnings.
Two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that requires a user to provide two different forms of authentication to access an account or system. It aims to strengthen the security of passwords by adding a second factor, usually a code generated by a mobile app or sent via SMS, to the login process. Only authorized users can access the system or account, even if their password is stolen. Two-factor authentication is widely used in online banking, e-commerce, and, of course, iGaming. It’s a good measure for securing user accounts and protecting sensitive information.
How to identify a reputable iGaming platform
Before betting on the outcome of the next football match or playing a round of Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, or Tiki Terror, it’s crucial to ensure that the platform of choice is safe and reputable. Some factors to look out for include the following:
- Check for licenses: Ensure the casino or sportsbook has a valid license from a reputable regulatory authority such as the UKGC, the Isle of Man GSC, or MGA. This information is usually displayed on the casino’s website.
- Look for reviews: Search for reviews about the platform, and read what other players say about their experiences.
- Investigate the software: Check which software providers the casino uses and whether they are well-known and reputable.
- Review the payment options: Verify that the casino offers secure and reliable payment options, such as credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
- Look for customer support: Check whether the casino provides reliable customer support through live chat, email, or phone and if their support team is available 24/7.
- Read the terms and conditions: Carefully review the casino’s terms and conditions carefully to ensure they are fair and transparent, especially regarding bonuses and withdrawals.
