eCOGRA

eCOGRA was founded in March 2003 by Microgaming Systems Ltd and Virtual Holdings Ltd. Microgaming is the largest casino software provider, and Virtual Holdings Ltd is the company behind Casino-on-Net, the largest online casino. eCOGRA's independence is guaranteed by the following:

	It's board of directors consists of six members. The executive director is Andrew Beveridge. Two directors represent the founding members, Microgaming Systems Ltd and Virtual Holdings Ltd. Finally, three directors are completely independent.
	A committee consisting of the three independent directors is solely responsible for determining which casino software providers may join eCOGRA, and which operators may carry the eCOGRA seal of approval.
	An independent audit panel is responsible for making sure eCOGRA members adhere to eCOGRA's Code of Conduct (eGAP). The panel consists of PriceWatherhouseCoopers, and eCOGRA's goal is to add more reputable accounting firms in the future.

Player benefits

Player protection

	Efficient and prompt payouts.
	Adequate records of player balances and game parameters.
	Availability, integrity and confidentiality of gaming operations.
	Discouraging problem gambling.
	Sufficient funds to cover player balances and game funds.
	Privacy and confidentiality of all player information.

Fair gaming

	Best practices software development and maintenance standards.
	Games shall be random, independent and fair.
	Players must be protected from losses due to connectivity problems.
	Game characteristics ensure a fair game for a player.
	Recovery from a system disaster must be possible
	Protection from system and hardware malfunctions.

Responsible conduct

	Prevention and detection methods for money laundering and other fraud.
	Players may not be mislead through advertising or promotional activities. Terms and conditions of promotions must be followed.
	All key individuals and entities involved with members and operators should be credible and not have criminal records.

Each objective is associated with a set of minimum requirements, suggested practices as well as methods that will be used to enforce compliance with the minimum requirements. You can find the official eGAP document here

eCOGRA represents a very significant step towards a more responsible and secure online gambling industry. It not only has established a very stringent code of conduct to which it's members must adhere to, but also provides the means to enforce this code of conduct through it's independent audit panel. Many gambling watchdogs have formulated a stringent code of conduct in the past, but without actually enforcing it. If eCOGRA succeeds in their mission, it will be without doubt the number one gambling watchdog in due time.