The online poker industry in India is a multi-billion industry that is evolving rapidly. The cause behind the speed and sophistication of this evolution is the emerging ecosystem that rewards both the online platforms and the users. Considering the constant tug-of-war with the legal system, it is imperative for online poker platforms to maintain a high standard of self-regulation and safety measures. Here is a look at the industry and key initiatives taken to ensure a safe and secure environment for free poker tournaments.
Industry Initiative
The industry has given rise to a non-profit association that helps set guidelines and promotes self-regulation. This association's primary focus is on policy advocacy and research. They have also build a forum to discuss and address all concerns related to the online gaming industry. The association has laid down the framework for every member to abide by and to be sealed as an approved operator. Without the preapproval, no online gaming website can run their business legally in India. The framework has laid down guidelines on fair play violation policies, responsible gaming standards, software integrity, and other related internal control standards.
Online Poker Sites Initiatives
Following are the leading practices every online poker site undertakes to ensure adherence to high benchmarks of the industry:-
1. Partnering
Every online poker website needs to become a member of a skill gaming association to participate and adopt their standards for self-regulation and responsible gaming.
2. Product Certification
Online platforms ensure that the product and payment gateways are adequately and periodically verified and certified by an externally recognized agency that carries out the necessary certification and seal.
3. Fair Play & Responsible Gaming
It is the responsibility of the online gaming website operators to design a fair-play violation policy to ensure strict adherence to the guidelines laid down in the policy.
4. Data Privacy
These operators also have to ensure data privacy by defining policies and procedures to secure proprietary and confidential user information.
5. Dispute Resolution
Adopting effective dispute resolution mechanisms for player disputes and a speedy TAT for resolving complaints from players.
6. Holding Funds in Fiduciary Capacity
It is imperative for all online poker operatives to formulate rigid guidelines and policies to ensure the effective and secure management of user funds. This includes measures like separate bank accounts for all incoming funds from user accounts and making sure that these funds are not utilized for operational expenses.
7. Player Verification
Another important aspect of online poker is to establish an adequate system to verify the KYC of clients and customers to ensure more transparency and accountability from the user's side as well as better compliance from the operators.
Summing Up
Playing online poker is completely safe. But, remember, it is not only the responsibility of the operators and the association, but users should also pay attention before selecting an online poker room to play free poker tournaments. Make sure to crosscheck the reliability of the poker site you are about to set foot in. Before handing them over your money, conform to the laws of the country and whether it is legal and safe to register. Today, there is a wide range of poker sites to play free poker tournaments that offer a user-friendly gaming experience to the recreational and professional player alike. So, navigate through websites, and once you are familiar with the structure, mechanism, and satisfied with the safety and privacy policies of the website, only then start playing online poker.
