Are There Any Real Money Poker Sites Left?

Many poker players have this question on their minds these days, as the online poker industry has undergone significant changes over the past few years. The United States government cracked down on online gambling in 2011, which led to the closure of several major poker sites. But despite these challenges, there are still plenty of real money poker sites out there for players to enjoy.

What Happened to Online Poker

In 2011, the United States Department of Justice seized the domain names of several major online poker sites, including PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker, and Absolute Poker. The move was part of a crackdown on illegal online gambling activities in the US. The government accused these sites of violating federal laws by processing payments related to illegal gambling activities.

As a result of this crackdown, many online poker players lost access to their accounts and were unable to withdraw their funds. This caused a great deal of frustration and anger among players who had invested time and money into building their bankrolls.

PRO TIP:Many online poker sites offer real money games, but it is important to do your research beforehand to ensure that the site is legitimate and secure. Make sure to check the website’s customer reviews, security protocols, and licensing information before you start playing.

The Current State of Online Poker

Despite these challenges, the online poker industry has continued to thrive in many parts of the world. In countries where online poker is legal and regulated, there are plenty of reputable real money poker sites for players to choose from.

In addition to this, some US states have also started legalizing online poker within their borders. For example, Nevada legalized online poker in 2013 and now has several licensed real money poker sites operating within its borders.

How to Choose a Real Money Poker Site

When choosing a real money poker site, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable site that offers fair games and secure transactions. Here are some things to consider:

  • License and Regulation: Make sure the poker site is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority.
  • Game Selection: Look for a site that offers a wide variety of games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Stud.
  • Bonuses and Promotions: Check out the bonuses and promotions offered by the site to see if they are attractive to you.
  • Payment Options: Make sure the site offers secure payment options that are convenient for you.
  • Customer Support: Look for a site with responsive customer support that can address any issues or concerns you may have.

The Bottom Line

While the online poker industry has faced some challenges in recent years, there are still plenty of real money poker sites out there for players to enjoy. By doing your research and choosing a reputable site, you can safely and securely play poker online for real money.