There are a few things to do before placing a bet online. The first is to ask friends where they place their bets. This will save time and could be fun placing bets on the same sites as friends. Always read the rules of the site before betting. This is a good indicator. If they do not care how old a person should be on the site, then it is probably not legitimate. If the site does not post a minimum bid requirement, then it is probably not legitimate. Most betting sites pay with paypal or some other kind of money transfer service. Do not place a bet if information about where to pick up winnings is not included on the site. Do trust those that say they will send a check.

Another indication of a reputable betting site is that they will say they belonging to the Nevada gambling association. Gambling sites are legal only if they are owned by a casino. The site is probably fake if they make no such claim. Also, if there is no affiliation with a casino mentioned, it is probably a fake web site out to get some money. If a site does mention a casino, call the casino and ask if it is one of their sites. This is a good way to check to see if the site is real.

Never give out personal information such as a social security number or bank account number on any website that claims they need it. Always pay using a transfer service, try not to use a credit card. Fraudulent companies will sell information once they receive it and could lead to identity theft. If a site just does not seem legitimate, trust those instincts and leave the site. There are plenty of other sites to place a bet with.