Before you start: know the rules where you live
Licensed markets often require ID checks before you can gamble online; in Great Britain, remote operators must verify your name, address, and date of birth before permitting play.
Some regulators restrict or ban crypto deposits entirely (for example, Ontario does not allow licensed operators to accept cryptocurrency deposits, and Australia bans licensed wagering operators from accepting digital currencies since June 11, 2024).
This tutorial is informational, not legal advice—always follow local law and operator rules.
Step 1 — Choose the right kind of wallet for gambling
Decide between self-custody and custodial. Self-custody gives you control of your keys and is the norm for web3 dApps; custodial wallets on exchanges are simpler but depend on the exchange’s security and policies.
Match the wallet to your chain and coin. For EVM chains and most web3 casinos, browser wallets expose a standard provider (EIP-1193) that dApps use to request connections and signatures; many sites also support WalletConnect QR flows to link mobile wallets.
If you’ll use Bitcoin specifically, decide whether you need on-chain payments only or also Lightning for near-instant deposits; Lightning uses payment channels anchored to Bitcoin to enable fast, low-cost transfers.
Tip: keep a small “play wallet” separate from long-term holdings, and consider a hardware wallet for storage you don’t plan to spend frequently.
Step 2 — Install from official sources and create your wallet securely
Only download wallet apps and extensions from official links; scammers regularly distribute fake software that asks for your seed phrase. Recent reports highlight fake “Ledger Live” apps stealing seed phrases—never enter your recovery phrase into any pop-up or website.
When you create the wallet, you’ll receive a Secret Recovery Phrase (seed phrase). Never share it; anyone who learns it can move your funds. MetaMask and Phantom both emphasize that support will never ask for your recovery phrase. Store it offline (paper/metal), not in screenshots or cloud notes.
Step 3 — Connect your wallet to a casino or dApp (safely)
On desktop, most EVM dApps detect wallet extensions via the standardized provider (EIP-1193). On mobile or when using a desktop site with a mobile wallet, use WalletConnect to scan a QR code and approve the connection from your wallet—your private keys never leave the wallet.
Grant the minimum permissions needed. If a site requests token spending approvals, remember you can later revoke them using tools such as Etherscan’s Token Approval Checker or Revoke.cash. Periodic approval audits are good wallet hygiene.
Step 4 — Fund your wallet and make a small test deposit
Fund via an exchange or on-ramp, then withdraw to your wallet. For extra safety on exchanges, enable 2FA and a withdrawal-address whitelist so coins can only leave to your pre-approved addresses. Major platforms document how to add and whitelist addresses.
Always verify network and address type before sending; exchanges like Kraken warn that different assets can share similar formats, so copy and paste the exact address and pick the correct network.
Send a small test amount first, confirm it arrives, then proceed with your full deposit.
Step 5 — Understand confirmations, fees, and Lightning (BTC users)
Bitcoin transactions settle in blocks roughly every ~10 minutes on average. Casinos and exchanges typically credit after a set number of confirmations (often 1–3 for smaller amounts). If your transaction is stuck due to a low fee, fee-bumping techniques like Replace-by-Fee (RBF) or Child-Pays-for-Parent (CPFP) can help. You can monitor fees and confirmation progress on mempool explorers.
Some operators support the Lightning Network for near-instant BTC deposits. Lightning routes payments over channels anchored to the Bitcoin blockchain to enable fast, low-cost settlement when both sides support it.
Step 6 — Avoid common wallet scams (especially “address poisoning”)
Address poisoning attacks plant look-alike addresses in your history hoping you’ll copy the wrong one next time. Chainalysis and wallet vendors describe how attackers send zero-value or dust transactions from vanity addresses to “poison” your recent activity. Use an address book, verify the entire address, and never copy from your history alone.
General rules still apply: never reveal your recovery phrase, beware clipboard-hijacking malware, and don’t sign transactions you don’t understand.
Step 7 — Make your first casino deposit (check the cashier page)
Open the cashier, select your coin and network, and generate the deposit address or QR code. Double-check the address, send your small test amount, and wait for the operator’s stated confirmations before sending the remainder. If you’re using Lightning, follow the site’s invoice instructions and confirm the payment succeeded.
Keep a record of the transaction ID (hash) so you can track it on the relevant explorer.
Step 8 — Plan safe withdrawals
Before you win big, add your own wallet address to the casino’s withdrawal list and confirm any required verification emails or KYC steps so you aren’t surprised later. When cashing out to an exchange, withdraw only to addresses you have whitelisted on that exchange.
Quick checklist
Confirm the site is legal for you and what KYC is required.
Install wallets from official sources only; never share your seed phrase.
Connect via EIP-1193 or WalletConnect; grant minimal permissions and revoke old approvals.
Whitelist withdrawal addresses and use 2FA on exchanges.
For BTC, understand confirmations and how to bump fees with RBF/CPFP; monitor mempool conditions.
Stay alert to address-poisoning scams; use an address book and verify full addresses.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Why hasn’t my Bitcoin deposit shown up
It may need more confirmations or your fee was too low. Check the cashier’s confirmation policy and your transaction on a mempool explorer; consider RBF/CPFP if your wallet supports it.
How do I connect a mobile wallet to a desktop casino
Look for a “WalletConnect” button, scan the QR code in your wallet app, and approve the connection; it uses an encrypted, standards-based bridge and does not expose your private keys.
Can I use the same wallet for everything
You can, but it’s safer to keep a small “play wallet” for gambling and a separate wallet (ideally hardware) for savings. If you use EVM tokens, periodically revoke outdated spending approvals.
What if I need help limiting my gambling
In Great Britain, GAMSTOP lets you self-exclude from all GB-licensed online operators in one step. In the U.S., the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) offers 24/7 support by call, text, or chat.
