The Internet makes it easy to play poker online, but you should be aware of the risks. One of the biggest risks is being scammed by unscrupulous players. Luckily, there are a lot of ways to protect yourself. First, be sure that you are of legal age. This is important because many poker sites will require you to provide your social security number and date of birth. It is also important to be aware of the laws in your jurisdiction.
Currently, there are only a few states where online poker is legal, but this number is growing. You should only play poker if you are at least 18 years old and live in a state where online poker is legal. There are also a number of laws that regulate the legality of online poker. However, gambling laws in the US vary widely.
Taking the right precautions can help you maximize your winnings. To increase your chances of winning, make sure that you set aside some cash as a “test bankroll.” Open an internet bank account and look for reputable online poker rooms. These sites will offer micro-limit games and free play, as well as sign-up bonuses. After getting acquainted with the software, play free poker games for fun or start depositing money in micro-limit tables.
One of the best poker tips is to understand the different types of starting hands. A good starting hand is 6-5 diamonds, which has a flush and straight flush possibility. A pair of eights is also a good starting hand, although the ace is the kicker.
