Security Measures at a Casino

Casino is a gambling establishment or facility that offers various gambling activities. Casinos have a variety of security measures in place to protect both patrons and employees. These measures include video surveillance, security officers and doormen. Most casinos also offer complimentary drinks and snacks to attract customers. Some casinos even offer live entertainment.

In addition to video cameras, many casinos use sophisticated technology to monitor their games. Known as “chip tracking,” the chips have built-in microcircuitry that interacts with electronic systems to allow the casino to oversee the amount of money wagered minute by minute and to discover any anomaly. Roulette wheels are also electronically monitored to discover any statistical deviation from their expected results. Some casinos also have catwalks that allow security personnel to look directly down through one-way glass at the game tables and slot machines.

With such large amounts of money changing hands within a casino, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. Because of this, casinos spend a great deal of time and money on security. In addition to video surveillance, most casinos have guards and doormen, and all bets are placed in sealed envelopes. In addition, some casinos use special cards to identify players and prevent them from cheating by giving away their winnings to other players.

While casinos do bring in a lot of money, they are not without their critics. Some economists argue that the money spent on treating compulsive gamblers and lost productivity by those addicted to gambling more than offset any economic benefits they generate.