The rules for online poker are similar to those for other forms of gambling. In order to play poker for real money, you must be at least 18 years old. Depending on the state you’re from, this may be different from the age required to legally gamble. If you’re under 18, you must first create a user account before downloading the software. Besides, you need to check your age to be sure you’re not underage.

The biggest reason why players should be careful while playing online poker is because they could be the victim of hackers. There are advanced security features in the best poker sites, which protect your money and personal information. Some players may claim that the game is “fixed” or “rigged,” but that’s simply not true. This is mainly because those people who complain about cheating are not very experienced. The good news is that online poker is safe and secure.

Before you start playing, you should try different games and variations of poker, and participate in forums. It’s important to practice on low stakes and learn from your mistakes. The best way to practice and learn is to play for free and with low stakes. It’s also recommended to read reviews of various poker sites so that you can know if they’re safe and legitimate. There are also plenty of forums dedicated to online poker that can help you decide which site to play at.