Many players choose non-GamStop casinos for their wider game selection and flexible policies. However, a crucial factor in choosing a trustworthy platform is its international license. This license serves as an official stamp of approval, ensuring the gambling sites not on GamStop operates legally and adheres to a set of standards that protect players and guarantee fair play.
What Is an International License?
An international license is a legal authorization issued by a recognized gambling authority in a specific jurisdiction. This license allows the casino to operate and accept players from various countries worldwide, as long as it doesn’t contradict local laws. The most common international licenses for non-GamStop casinos come from jurisdictions known for their gaming regulations, such as Curacao and Malta.
Key Licensing Bodies
- Curacao eGaming: This is one of the most popular and widely used licenses in the non-GamStop sector. It’s known for being a more straightforward and cost-effective option for operators, which allows many new and innovative casinos to enter the market. While its regulatory framework is less strict compared to some other jurisdictions, it still requires casinos to follow basic rules of fairness, security, and anti-money laundering.
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA): The MGA license is widely regarded as a “gold standard” in the iGaming industry. It is known for its stringent regulations, robust player protection, and strict anti-money laundering standards. Casinos with an MGA license are often considered highly reputable and trustworthy.
Why Licensing Matters for Players
A casino’s international license is more than just a piece of paper; it provides crucial protections for players.
- Fair Play: All licensed casinos must use a Random Number Generator (RNG) to ensure that game outcomes are completely random and unbiased. The integrity of these RNGs is often audited by independent third-party agencies.
- Security: Reputable licensed casinos are required to use SSL encryption to protect all player data and financial transactions. This ensures that your personal information is kept secure from cyber threats.
- Dispute Resolution: In the event of a dispute, a licensed casino is subject to the authority of its licensing body. While the level of intervention can vary between jurisdictions, this gives players a channel to address unresolved issues.
- Responsible Gaming: Even without being part of a specific local self-exclusion scheme, most licensed non-GamStop casinos are required to offer tools that promote responsible gambling, such as deposit limits, session timers, and self-exclusion options.
When choosing a non-GamStop casino, always check for its international license, typically found at the bottom of the website. A valid license is the most reliable indicator of a secure, fair, and legitimate gaming environment.
