PHILADELPHIA -- It was bound to happen eventually; Internet Casino Sports Gaming (I.C.S.G.), an Internet gaming company based in Philadelphia, is issuing VISA and MasterCard debit cards.
Gamblers may establish an account by applying for a card on the company's websites or by phone, and if approved, must deposit a minimum of $1,250 to back that debit card. Winnings will be deposited in the account. Players may not spend beyond the limits of their debit card deposits and their winnings.
"By offering VISA and MasterCard service, we are guaranteeing the protection of the player's funds," said Joseph Gallagher, an online gaming consultant for I.C.S.G. "This provides convenience, security, privacy and financial tracking accountability at the highest level. We want our players to enjoy themselves and be confident about the professionalism of the house.
"Furthermore, we can deposit winnings immediately into their accounts. This enables our customers to have instant access to their funds anywhere in the world through participating retailers and financial institutions that honor VISA and MasterCard. You can use it at any restaurant, hotel or supermarket, or withdraw funds from your account at any bank that recognizes those credit cards."
Internet Casino Sports Gaming will launch its first online casino within 40 days at http://www.TheGambler.com. Two others with different graphical themes are expected to come online before the end of the year. The company is in the process of signing up players and accepting applications for the VISA and MasterCard debit cards. The firm's Dominican Republic casino sportsbook service is already up and running at 888/227-2200.
In addition to offering video poker, roulette, slots and blackjack, The Gambler Casino and Sportsbook will accept overseas wagers on football, basketball, boxing, baseball, soccer, hockey, tennis, horse racing, auto racing and golf. The firm's software designers have developed a process for speedy downloading of its online casinos.
"It is time for Internet gaming to join the established forms of wagering in this country—horse racing, legalized casinos, card clubs and riverboats—in certain standards of customer service," said Gallagher.
"We believe that in accepting VISA and MasterCard, we protect the customer in many ways. A player cannot be in debt to the house for more than he can afford to post in advance. This is an exciting step for I.C.S.G., and we hope that players will recognize the security and benefits."
For more information, call 888/227-2000 or go to www.TheGambler.com.