Casino Security

A casino’s security begins on the casino floor. Casino employees keep an eye on games and patrons, keeping an eye out for cheating. Dealers focus on their own games, but they can also spot suspicious patrons if they’re watching. Other casino employees, such as table managers and pit bosses, watch for betting patterns and other signs of cheating. Every employee is closely monitored by a higher-up person. They also record video feeds for later review.

The casino concept originated in Venice, Italy. The government authorized the establishment of a four-story ridotto where players could gamble with primitive cards. They also served food and drink to their patrons. The Ridotto was significant as the first gambling house open to the public. Because the stakes were high, the clientele was usually wealthy. It is considered the birthplace of the modern casino. Although there are other forms of gambling, casino gambling remains one of the most popular.

Studies have found that gambling addiction leads to significant damage to a person’s life. However, it also generates substantial profits for the casino. A study by Harrah’s Entertainment found that about five percent of Americans are addicted to gambling. These individuals account for 25 percent of the profits of casinos in the United States. Additionally, economic studies show that casinos have a negative impact on communities. Casinos attract local players, but they divert spending from other forms of entertainment in the community. In many cases, the economic benefit of a casino is offset by the costs of treating the problem gamblers and the lost productivity they cause.