Online casinos have become incredibly popular, but they often come with a lingering question: Are these platforms rigged? Understanding how online casinos ensure fair play can help dispel these fears and make your gaming experience more enjoyable.
This article looks into the mechanisms behind online casino fairness, including the role of testing agencies like eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and the concept of “Provably Fair” technology.
Table of contents
Understanding random number generators (RNGs)
First off, let's start with the random number generator (RNG). This is effectively the heart of the complex algorithms designed to produce random outcomes in games that you are familiar with, like slots, roulette, and table card games.
RNGs ensure that each game result is independent and unpredictable, which is crucial for maintaining fairness. Reputable online casinos subject their RNGs to regular audits by independent agencies to certify that they meet industry standards.
To find reputable casinos, we recommend this site, as LCB has a large research team that carefully tests and evaluates casinos.
The role of testing agencies
To further ensure fairness, online casinos often undergo testing and certification by independent agencies. These agencies assess the integrity of the casino's games and systems, providing players with peace of mind.
- eCOGRA (eCommerce Online Gambling Regulation and Assurance): Founded in 2003, eCOGRA is one of the most respected testing and certification agencies in the industry. It offers a range of services, including RNG testing, game fairness audits, and player protection evaluations. Online casinos that meet eCOGRA’s rigorous standards receive the eCOGRA Seal, which is a mark of trust and reliability.
- iTech Labs: Another prominent agency, iTech Labs specialises in RNG testing, game audits, and platform security assessments. Like eCOGRA, iTech Labs ensures that online casino games are fair and that the gaming platform operates securely and transparently.
- TST (Technical Systems Testing): TST, a part of Gaming Laboratories International, is another major player in the online casino testing world. It provides a comprehensive range of services, including RNG testing, software verification, and compliance certification.
The concept of provably fair
Provably Fair technology is a relatively new innovation, primarily used in blockchain-based casinos. This technology allows players to verify the fairness of each game round independently, providing an additional layer of transparency.
As you might be aware, blockchain technology is decentralised and functions as a digital ledger of sorts. Every single transaction across the network of computers needs to be verified and then added to a “block.”
Once a block is confirmed, it is linked to a previous block or added to the chain of blocks, which are effectively dependent on each other.
This interdependence makes it very difficult to tamper with the contained data, ensuring not only the security of the data but also transparency, as it can be checked and verified. With regards to Provably Fair casino tech, it works as follows:
- Seed Creation: The casino generates a server seed, a random string of numbers, which is encrypted and stored securely.
- Player Seed: Players can generate their own client seed, which is combined with the server seed to determine the game outcome.
- Verification: After the game, the player can decrypt the server seed to verify that the game was not manipulated, ensuring it was truly random and fair.
Why licensing and certification matter
The legitimacy of an online casino isn’t just about its games—it also depends on the licensing and regulatory compliance of the platform.
Top licensing authorities, such as the Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission, impose strict regulations on online casinos to ensure transparency, player protection, and fair play.
A casino licensed by these authorities is regularly audited to maintain these standards.
Verdict?
👍 Online casinos are generally not rigged, especially if they are licensed by reputable authorities and have their games tested by independent agencies like eCOGRA or iTech Labs.
To ensure you’re playing on a fair platform, always check for the presence of certification seals like eCOGRA’s and ensure the casino is licensed by a reputable authority.
This way, you can focus on enjoying your games without worrying about unfair practices.
