A casino is a public place where a wide variety of games of chance can be played. While elaborate theaters, stage shows and free drinks may help lure patrons, casinos would not exist without games like slot machines, blackjack, roulette and craps. These games of chance are the source of the billions in profits raked in by casinos every year.
A few states have legalized casinos, but the majority of them are operated by private companies. They are often located on or near tourist destinations and have become a major component of the local economy. However, critics claim that the cost of treating gambling addiction and lost productivity from gambling addicts more than offset any economic gains.
Casinos are usually regulated by gaming control boards/commissions, which are responsible for creating rules and regulations based on state gambling laws. They are also responsible for licensing land-based and online gambling operators and employees.
Modern casinos employ a combination of physical security personnel and specialized surveillance departments to keep the property safe. Typically, the physical security force patrols the casino floor and responds to calls for assistance or suspected criminal activity. The specialized surveillance department runs the casino’s closed circuit television system, sometimes called the eye in the sky.
Something about the allure of gambling seems to encourage people to cheat, steal or scam their way into a jackpot. As a result, casinos spend a large amount of time, effort and money on security.