Play Safe

Check it's legal for you

Online poker laws depend on your country, and sometimes your state or province. Offshore and crypto poker rooms aren't licensed in many regulated markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, Australia and Ontario. Using a VPN to get around a block can break a room's rules and get your account closed with your balance inside. If you're not sure online poker is legal where you live, don't play.

Before you sit down

• Decide how much you can afford to lose this month, and deposit only that.
• Set a time limit for each session and stick to it.
• Keep only your playing money on a poker site. Move winnings to your own wallet.
• Never chase losses or play to win back money you need.

Signs it's becoming a problem

• You play longer or with more money than you planned.
• You hide your play or your losses from people close to you.
• You borrow money, or skip bills, to keep playing.
• You feel anxious or irritable when you're not playing.

If any of these sound familiar, take a break and talk to someone. Most poker rooms can also limit or close your account if you ask.

Free, confidential help