Apps and browser play
Most online gambling now happens on phones, which makes it important to know which apps and sites to trust. We do not know for certain whether Urho offers its own app or which app stores it might be available in, so we do not link to any installation file. This page explains how to make the choice safely.
Browser or app
Playing in a browser means nothing is installed on your phone, the address bar always shows which site you are on and you can check that the connection is encrypted. An app can be convenient if it comes from an official app store and the publisher is the same company that runs the website. Bear in mind, though, that apps can send notifications and reminders that nudge you to play, which matters if you want to keep gambling under control.
Installation files from unknown sources
Android phones can install apps from outside the app store as APK files. With gambling this is risky: the file may be a fake that harvests logins, banking details or the contents of your phone. If someone sends you a link to "the casino's own app" in a message or an advert, do not install it. Keep the setting that allows installation from unknown sources switched off.
iPhone and app stores
On an iPhone, apps are normally installed from the App Store. If a casino app cannot be found there, that is not a sign that you should look for it elsewhere; app store rules for gambling apps differ between countries. Always check the publisher's name on the app listing and compare it with the company named in the footer of the operator's website.
On a computer
On a computer, online casinos are almost always played in the browser. No separate desktop software is needed, so do not download any from sites you do not know. Keep the browser up to date and use a password manager rather than letting the browser store your gambling logins.
Updates and permissions
If you do use an app, keep it and your phone's operating system up to date, and look at the permissions it asks for. A gambling app has no need for access to your contacts, messages or photos. If it requests them, that is a good reason to uninstall it.
Protecting your account on a phone
- Use a screen lock and turn on two-step verification if the site offers it.
- Consider not saving card details on the gambling site; a little effort before each deposit is a useful brake.
- Switch off marketing notifications in the app and browser settings.
- Check the address before logging in, and read the page on mirror sites and fake addresses.
Because a phone is always with you, it is easy to drift back to playing. Set deposit and time limits on the first day. If you notice that you open a gambling site out of habit, remove it from the home screen or take a break; see self-exclusion and breaks and responsible gambling. Opening an account is covered on the page Register.