Is Online Blackjack Rigged or Just Widely Misunderstood?

If you’re a blackjack player like me, you’ve probably been on a losing streak at some point that made you wonder, “Is online blackjack rigged?” We answer that question and explain why some players might get the wrong idea about its fairness.

I can say with the utmost certainty, that online blackjack is not rigged when played at safe and licensed casinos in Canada. The best gambling sites use random number generators (RNGs) to ensure that blackjack outcomes are genuinely random, closely mimicking the unpredictability of a real-life game.

The algorithms used in these RNGs ensure that a game pays out what it should in the long term. For example, most online blackjack variants have an RTP of 99.5% or higher, so they will theoretically pay out $99.50 of every $100 wagered on the game.

Now that we’ve explained how blackjack game outcomes are designed to be random and fair, let’s look at why it might feel like the odds are stacked against you.

Many players—especially newer ones—can start to doubt the fairness of online blackjack when they go through a rough patch. Even when games are powered by certified Random Number Generators (RNGs), those losing streaks can feel personal. That feeling, while common, is usually more about perception than reality.

Losing streaks feel worse than they are

As humans, we naturally look for patterns and try to make sense of them. On top of that, negative experiences tend to stick with us more than positive ones. So, it’s easy to see why a losing streak stands out in your memory more than a few hands that go your way—especially if that big win never arrives.

Once you’re in the throes of a bad run, that’s when doubt comes in. It can cause you to think that the world is against you, and you’re losing because the game is rigged.

Of course, the numbers don’t back this up, but it’s a very real feeling that we have all experienced at one point or another. The truth is, this simply isn’t how online blackjack works.

RTP doesn’t tell the whole blackjack payouts story

Another reason for potentially believing blackjack is rigged goes back to a point I mentioned earlier about RTP. Payout percentages are merely an average, and don’t predict wins.

Remember, the RTP of blackjack and other casino games is averaged out over millions of game rounds or spins, so there’s really no way to do the math in the short term.

Yes, technically casinos can cheat at online blackjack. However, these games are typically fair at regulated casinos thanks to certified gaming software and strict testing. As a rule of thumb, the trustworthiness of online casino sites is what matters most.

Regulated platforms, where safe licensing can be verified are generally reliable and are good for your money. Shady or blacklisted online casinos may indeed offer rigged blackjack games, but it’s more likely they’ll simply refuse to pay out your winnings.

If a site doesn’t clearly show a valid license from a trusted authority, it’s best to play elsewhere. Most reputable online casinos display their licensing details at the bottom of the homepage. Curaçao licensed casinos and gambling sites licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority are both considered safe choices.

Accreditation is also key to safer play online

Independent accreditation is another factor to look for when making sure the online casino you choose is safe. These third parties are responsible for auditing gaming sites to ensure they are safe and offer fair games that reflect the stated RTP and winning odds. If you see an eCOGRA certification, you know you’re in good hands!