Online gambling at MyCasino has exploded in popularity over the last two decades. However, with its growth have come many myths and misconceptions as well.
In this article, we will uncover the truth behind some of the biggest false beliefs about internet casinos and sports betting. Understanding the facts behind these online gambling myths is key for consumers looking to enjoy these entertainment options responsibly and securely.
Myth #1: Online gambling sites are completely unregulated
While the internet introduced more accessibility to gambling, it has also led to stricter regulatory oversight as well. Most reputable online casinos and sportsbooks today are licensed and regulated by governing bodies. These include the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), and others.
These regulators enforce standards for fair gaming, player protections, privacy, financial practices, and responsible gambling. For example, the UKGC requires licensees to offer activity limits, self-exclusion options, and links to problem gambling resources. So while offshore, unlicensed sites do exist, most major real money gambling platforms comply with regulations similar to land-based venues.
Myth #2: You’re more likely to become addicted to online gambling
Another common myth is that gambling online carries a higher addiction risk than traditional casinos. However, most studies show that the medium itself does not contribute to more compulsive tendencies. For example, research in the Journal of Gambling Studies found:
“The rapid expansion of Internet gambling has raised concerns about an increase in problem gambling worldwide. However, most evidence suggests that there is currently a moderate level of problem gambling among Internet gamblers.”
Rather, factors like game speed, accessibility, and demographics seem to have more influence on problematic patterns. Either way, responsible online gambling sites also give players consumer protections like deposit limits, timeout options, and self-exclusion tools. Utilizing these can help those at risk manage their behavior.
Myth #3: Online slots and casinos are rigged
Suspicions of rigged games at online casinos are understandable. Without being able to examine the machines in person, how can you really know whether internet slots or virtual card games are fair? Well, the legitimacy of online gambling software today is ironclad thanks to encryption, third-party testing, and licensing oversight.
Regulators mandate that all real money games offered by licensed sites utilize Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure provably fair outcomes. These RNG systems are then tested by independent auditing companies like eCOGRA. Their seals of approval verify the integrity and randomness of game results over time. Lastly, licensing bodies also conduct extensive background checks, technical reviews, and audits of their licensees.
So while nominal outcome differences can occur short-term, over hundreds of thousands of spins or hands, the house edge percentages for regulated online casino games match their claimed probabilities.
Myth #4: Beginner’s luck is more common online
Another questionable belief is that beginner’s luck happens more frequently on internet gambling platforms. Luck always plays a role in specific outcomes. However, again we can look at the technology powering online casinos. RNG systems ensure every slot spin or card shuffle is completely random.
Over a small sample, an inexperienced player may hit an unlikely jackpot or hot streak. But probability theory still dictates these results will converge to the statistical expectations long-term. So while you may occasionally see posts online about a first-timer hitting it big, luck ultimately averages out evenly across all player experience levels.
Myth #5: You can’t win real money online
Lastly, a myth still lingers from the rise of free-to-play social casino games and apps. Many consumers erroneously think real money prizes aren’t available online or that the games are rigged against paying out. In reality, regulated online gambling sites process billions annually in cash payouts to customers across slots, table games, poker, lotteries and more.
These platforms provide the same real money winning opportunities as their land-based counterparts. Returns To Player (RTP) percentages matching Vegas and state lottery winnings prove online games reliably pay out prizes over time. And thanks to encryption, licensed oversight, and RNG testing, you can play confidently knowing games aren’t manipulated against real money players.
Summary
As seen above, while myths and misinformation exist in the online gambling space, the reality behind internet betting and gaming looks much different. Reputable sites today provide customers with safe, regulated real money entertainment options. And technology like RNG systems and encryption protects players by ensuring fair odds and secure financial transactions.
So by knowing the facts around these common online gambling falsehoods, bettors and players can enjoy their entertainment of choice with added confidence and peace of mind. And sticking to licensed sites offers added protections if any issues occur or assistance is ever needed.
