In recent years, especially during the COVID-19 shutdown, the American iGaming sector has blossomed into a multi-billion dollar endeavor. The caveat is that these licensed iGaming parlors are meant for residents of travelers of legal age in their states. Furthermore, American-licensed iGaming sites use sophisticated geolocator tools to pinpoint their members’ locations.
But besides geo-restriction concerns, the ever-looming threat of cybercriminals remains present. Crafty cyberthieves have been linked to damaging data breaches. However, having a VPN could come in handy while remaining anonymous when playing your favorite iGaming titles.
Understanding the VPN Basics
Virtual private networks (VPN) are a middleman between your network or device and the intended website. VPNs use highly sophisticated encryption measures to shield the user’s or browser’s identity. One way it does this is by masking the IP address or routing it through several remote servers to thwart determined cybercriminals and trying to work around geo-restrictions and censorship. The appearance of being elsewhere is one of the main reasons why iGaming players continue to use VPNs.
How Does a VPN Work for iGaming Sites?
The chief reason iGaming players invest in a VPN is to work around a state like New Jersey or Michigan’s strict geo-restrictions. Because these sites use geolocator tools as members create their accounts, having a VPN might help workaround the geo-restriction measures. The same applies to mobile devices, which are normally receptive to geolocator measures. Having a mobile VPN endeavors to accomplish the same things.
Benefits of Using a VPN for iGaming Services?
Besides offering a potential solution for working around geo-restriction measures, VPNs for iGaming offer an armada of benefits and features. When settling on the right VPN for your iGaming needs, please consider these essential benefits:
1. Working Around Geo-Restriction
Licensed American iGaming sites use strict and robust geolocator tools to verify their members’ whereabouts to remain compliant and in the good graces of their state gaming commission. But using the proper VPN might be what the doctor ordered to have you successfully register and participate at these heavily monitored iGaming parlors by concealing the real location of your IP address.
2. Premium and Additional Security Features
In recent years, Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and simple mom-and-pop shops have felt the sting and the brunt of data breaches. Because VPNs work between you and the outside world, they have a high percentage rate of masking your IP address and sensitive data from cybercriminals. This is especially important and evident when you make financial transactions or process withdrawals at American iGaming websites.
3. Helps to Avoid Throttling
Unfortunately, not every internet service provider is created equal, nor do they offer equal bandwidth. As a result, there can be untimely lapses, especially if you have a hot hand. Why take a chance when you can have the power of a VPN using a series of remote services with extremely high up times?
4. Gaming Anonymity
Because many iGaming sites offer lucrative tournaments, it’s reasonable to assume that some bruised feelings might develop when they watch you take the pot. VPNs, again, conceal your real IP address and make it highly improbable that disgruntled players, especially at tournament online casino games, can approach you.
5. Top-Notch Mobile iGaming on Wi-Fi
It is widely known that public wi-fi is the most notorious for being extremely vulnerable to cyber-attacks. But, playing with a VPN in public environments like at a restaurant or a park can offer the same level of perks and protections as playing on your computer.
Potential Drawbacks of Using a VPN for iGaming Services
While VPNs provide a boatload of benefits for iGaming, it is not perfect. If you’re considering using a VPN for iGaming websites, please consider these potential drawbacks before making your final decision.
1. Inconsistent Connection Speeds
Unfortunately, there is a tradeoff for maintaining robust security and privacy measures – speed. Going through dozens or more servers worldwide will lead to lag somewhere between you and the gaming site.
2. A Violation of the iGaming Site’s Terms
Licensed American iGaming sites maintain strict terms and conditions not to have their licenses revoked. One of the strictest rules is that their members be present or have a valid address in the state. For the most part, they also don’t favor VPNs. Should these sites discover you’re using a VPN, this could lead to a permanent ban from their site and possible forfeit of any winnings.
Another reason is additional verification delays. Because VPNs are constantly rerouting with other routers and servers, which might lead to unfortunate delays in verifying your account.
3. The VPN Cost
Like anything in life, like buying a house or a car, some VPNs cost more than others. Premium VPNs might come with costly subscriptions to use their services.
4. Some VPNs Use Ads
While most commercial VPNs work not to log your details, unfortunately, some do without your knowledge. These logs can lead to potential data leaks or open the door for damaging malware or other cyber attacks.
Final Thoughts
VPNs come with a lot of benefits for those who are into iGaming. But, before settling on a VPN, it’s always a good practice to help you study.