The EGBA is a non-profit trade association for online gambling operators. It was founded in 2007 by seven of the top online gaming companies in Europe: Bet-at-home, Bwin, Carmen Media Group, Digibet, Expekt Sportwetten, Interwetten Gaming Limited and Party Gaming. The association is funded through donations and membership dues.

The organization’s goals are two-pronged. They wish to encourage and reward fair and responsible gambling policies and has a code of conduct which must be adhered to by all its members. They also are determined to create a standardized online gaming industry across Europe. To that end, they have and will take legal action as needed to lobby governments to stop state monopolies and to not ban online gambling within those countries. Their overall goal would be to have a competitive, yet regulated European gaming industry.

In order to become a member of EGBA, online casino operators must pass some pretty strict requirements. The casino must offer round the clock customer service access to patrons. They must have a system in place to check customers for any signs of illegal activities, including fraud or money laundering. Any online casino that joins with EGBA agrees to have independent audits done on their operations annually.

As you can see, joining the EGBA is not as simple as applying and paying the annual dues. A casino operator must pass pretty vigorous tests in order to qualify for membership. Any site that is associated with the EGBA will have the organization’s logo displayed proudly on their site or at least mention the membership. That would be a good sign that the online casino is a legitimate and honest place to gamble.