With countless financial transactions occurring at the online casino sites, it is not surprising to learn that between the parties doing the transactions, occasionally problems occur. The entity involved with resolving disputes between the players and online casinos is called the eCOGRA. According to this organization the bulk of the conflicts between players and casinos are about their bonuses.

There are several types of conflict that can occur that are related to the casino bonuses. The casino operator might deny the request based on requirements that have not been met, or pay out a smaller amount because of it, depending on the TOS of the online casino in question. Not only can the way the casino games add to reaching the requirements vary greatly but they can also differ per country. This often leads to a confusing situation in which it is easy to create a conflict. Often the wagering requirements and other terms for withdrawing a bonus are simply unclear.

Based on figures provided by the eCOGRA for 2009, 50 percent of all claims were settled in favor of the player. This in turn also means that 50 percent of the time the casino rightfully denies the bonuses in whole or in part. The main cause for this is the simple yet disturbing fact that people do not read. The player registers, and without even looking at the terms, clicks accept and starts playing. Therefore it cannot be stressed enough that players should read the TOS and ensure they understand what is required. Only when they are informed, and understand the requirements, can they make an educated decision whether to play at this particular online casino or not. Should the TOS be unclear, or a player has a question there is usually a support desk they can turn to with any question they may have. In the event a player finds themselves in conflict with the casino, the fairness of the TOS will not be subject to discussion. The player accepted them and is bound by them, so if the player indeed did not adhere to the terms and regulations set out by the casino in question it will be next to impossible to reach a conclusion in his or her favor.

On the other hand there still are 50 percent of all cases for 2009 that were ruled in favor of the player, which means a good percentage of the online casinos will attempt to get away under the obligation to pay out the bonuses in question. In order to obtain a quick resolution on the dispute the player must ensure he has all the required documentation, which means the times and dates of any transactions that took place must be documented and sent to the casino’s helpdesk. Should the casino in question not reply within a normal time frame the player needs to get a third party involved, which would be the eCOGRA in this case. The organization will then handle the complaint and will settle the dispute in a fair manner.

M.A.H.