How to Safely Use Casino Apps on Your iPad in the U.S.

Online gambling is here to stay, and that's a fact. With more people than ever having access to devices like tablets and smartphones, and most Americans having access to stable, high-speed internet connections even on the go, online gambling is easier than ever…or it should be.

In the United States, unlike many other countries, laws are different in every state, so staying on the right side of them can begin to get tricky when it comes to gambling. Not only that, but in the wide world of online casinos, not every operator has the best interests or safety of their customers in mind.

If you’re ready to give online casinos a go, have a tablet set up and ready to roll, but are still a little bit nervous about the process of getting going, we’ve got all the details you need to know and consider right here.

1. Choose The Right Online Casino

One of the most important moments in any online gambling experience is choosing the right online casino. In 2026, these sites are legion, but that doesn't mean that every one you come upon can be trusted to provide a safe, legal environment and a selection of games that will have you coming back to visit time and time again.

Choosing the right online casino is easy enough when you understand the parameters of what separates good (or safe and legal) from bad (or unsafe and illegal), so let's lay them out.

• Any online casino that you use must have a verifiable license recognised by a US-based gaming board, such as the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board or the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement. The license number and details should be clearly displayed (usually at the bottom of the landing page).
• Only use sites that are encrypted. Look out for SSL encryption, which will be displayed in the search bar next to the website address: if you see a lock icon, you know you’re safe. This kind of encryption scrambles any data transmitted between you and the casino to keep your details safe from prying eyes.
• Only trust casino apps that can be downloaded from a reputable source and that have good reputations themselves. Brands like MGM are iconic for a reason! Only download apps from verified sources like the App Store to keep your device safe.

2. Know The Legalities

While online gambling is legal in many US states, it is not legal in all of them, so do not make the mistake of assuming. Understanding the context of federal laws as it relates to online gambling is important, too, as some of these laws also restrict how financial transactions through gambling apps are allowed.

We’ll leave the state-by-state regulations homework up to you, but CBS Sports has this to say about online gambling in the US in 2026:

 “Only seven states have legalized real-money online casinos as of February 2026. In Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia, users may play online casino games like slots, video poker, live dealer games, and specialty games.”

Playing on offshore platforms can land you in trouble: if the app isn't licensed where you are, you have no recourse should there be any issues or mishaps. Stick to US-licensed gaming sites to avoid potential trouble.

3. Secure Your Device

Every device you own, whether it is chiefly for work or leisure, must be appropriately secured against malware and the threat of invasion.

In a world of ever-advancing tech, cybercrime advances just as quickly, so it is essential that device users protect those devices and themselves from potential harm…

This is especially important if any personal or financial details are stored or transmitted using that device. Keep these best security practices in mind when gambling on your iPad:

• Always use strong, unique passwords. If you're stuck for inspiration, password generators attached to apps like Bitwarden can be helpful.
• Enable 2-factor authentication on any casino app that supports it (this goes for any app you use that offers this form of authentication.
• Enable biometrics or face ID. It is a far larger challenge for unscrupulous individuals to get past this kind of security.
• Avoid unsecured public internet connections. No gambling on the wifi at your favourite cafe!
• Keep an eye on app permissions. Only enable permissions that are absolutely necessary. Do check this in your settings, as some apps auto-set permissions.

4. Choose Safe Payment Channels

Reputable apps will only use reputable financial services. Only play on apps that make use of payment services such as Apple Pay, PayPal, Skrill, Google Pay, and the like. If you are using a credit card, be sure that fraud protection is part of your service before using that card anywhere online.

No matter who asks you, even if you believe it to be a customer service representative, never ever share any credentials related to payments or the app in general with anyone outside of secure, encrypted methods of communication, such as the apps in house support or email channels.

5. Gamble Responsibly

Last, but never least: gamble responsibly. Online gambling has been created to be an entertaining and engaging way to enjoy casino games from the comfort of wherever you like: remember to treat it as such. Set budgets and stay within them, and remember to have fun!

Entertainment at Your Fingertips

If you set up your iPad safely,  follow your local laws, and keep in mind that gambling is just a game, there's no reason why you shouldn't be enjoying online casino games in a matter of minutes!