A casino is a building or room where gambling activities take place. The casino industry generates billions of dollars each year. Although casino amenities such as musical shows, lighted fountains, shopping centers and lavish hotels help attract customers, the vast majority of a casino’s profits come from the games of chance. Slot machines, roulette, blackjack, poker and craps are just a few of the popular games that provide the thrill of risk-taking and the opportunity to win big.
Casino patrons may be tempted to cheat and steal, either in collusion or independently; therefore, casinos must employ security measures to deter this activity. The most common measure is the use of cameras, which are often located throughout a casino. Casino employees also keep an eye on the gamblers, ensuring that all activities are fair. Casino dealers, for example, have an intimate view of the betting patterns of their patrons and can easily spot blatant cheating like palming or marking cards. Table managers and pit bosses have a broader view of the table games, checking for any suspicious or definite criminal activity.
The casino industry has changed greatly since its inception in Nevada more than a century ago. It is now a global business with operations in more than 40 countries and revenue of more than $60 billion. Its growth is due to the legalization of gambling in several states, including the booming Las Vegas Strip, the increasing popularity of Native American gaming, and the growing number of online casino sites that offer real money betting.
