Online poker is a card game that requires both skill and luck. Many people play it to win money, but there are some risks involved with this type of gambling. If you are thinking about trying it out, you should first learn the rules and hand ranking before playing for real money. This will help you avoid problem gambling.

Before you play poker online, you need to sign up for an account. You will need to provide information such as your name, address, and email address. You will also need to confirm that you are of legal age to play in your country. Some sites will require you to submit a government-issued ID or utility bill as proof of identity.

You should check whether an online poker site accepts your preferred banking method. Ideally, it should offer multiple UK-friendly options and allow you to make deposits and withdrawals without any hassle. You should also look for a website that offers competitive welcome offers.

Another great way to improve your online poker game is to practice on a free-to-play site. These sites offer a number of benefits, including anonymity, free tournament tickets, and loyalty rewards. They are ideal for beginners who want to experience the thrill of poker without risking any money.

Online poker is growing at an unprecedented rate. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a massive increase in traffic to poker sites, as more recreational players have turned to the Internet to satisfy their gambling cravings.