Online gambling can be daunting for the newcomer. As an online gambling veteran, I get asked many questions from family and friends that I introduce to online gambling.

Online gambling includes activities such as online poker, casinos, skill games and sports books.

Here, I answer some a few of the common questions I am asked.

Is gambling online safe and secure?

Wagering online is almost as safe as going to your local bookmakers or casino.

Ensure that when you are depositing money that you are doing so on a secured, encrypted page. You can often tell this by a padlock symbol in the browser and the address beginning with https.

Check that the site is licensed and regulated by a Government gaming body. They will often display this at the bottom of the site. But to be sure go on the Government licensing body website and check that the site is listed. If it is, then you have some protection regarding fraudulent activity and arbitration if you think something is wrong (such as you are not paid for a bet that you believed you won).

As is relevant to the internet as a whole, check regularly for viruses and ensure that your anti-virus software is always up-to-date.

What to I need for gambling online?

You will need a computer that is connected to the internet. However, many gaming sites now offer mobile gaming platforms so you are able to get by with just your mobile phone. Broadband and 3G connection will provide the best gaming experience.

You will also need a form of payment to deposit at the website. Many will accept third party wallets such as Money bookers. You can top up the wallet direct from your bank or debit/credit card and then transfer to the gaming site.

Beware that depositing via a credit card for gambling, can incur additional costs from your credit card company. So, it is often best to use either a debit card or third party wallet.

How much do I need to start with?

You can often play games and place bets from as little as 10p. However, often their will be a minimum deposit of around £/$10. You can usually play games for free also, to get a feel of what you will be playing for real money.

Most places also offer a bonus on your first deposit so you can be playing with more money than you initially deposited, although there are often wagering requirements with bonuses.