A casino, also known as a gambling hall or gaming house, is a place where people can gamble on games of chance. These places also serve food and drinks. Most American casinos are in Las Vegas, but some are on Native American reservations and other states that have legalized gambling. They are also found in many countries around the world.
A modern casino uses computer technology to help keep track of the money and play. For example, a new system allows casinos to monitor betting chips with built-in microcircuitry so that the total amounts wagered are known minute by minute, and any deviation from expected results is quickly discovered. Roulette wheels are monitored electronically to detect any statistical deviations from their expected results, and other technologies help casinos monitor player activity in the rooms.
Casinos have to take major steps to ensure that fraud and theft do not occur. They have to be on the lookout for counterfeit money and ensure that everyone entering is of legal age by checking IDs. They have to protect their equipment and supplies from thieves, and they must guard against people trying to cheat the house by card counting or other means.
Something about gambling seems to encourage people to cheat or steal, and casinos must spend a lot of time and money on security. In addition, there are always concerns about money laundering and terrorist activities. Casinos are usually protected by a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department.