Statistics reveal that a high percentage of Americans have visited a casino in the past year. The same percentage visited a casino in 1989. The reason for this increased popularity is not entirely clear, but it is believed that it is due in part to the fact that the average casino visitor was over 45 years old, had a high school education and came from a household with an above-average income. Whether or not these statistics are accurate is unknown.

As part of their marketing strategy, casinos use technology to keep track of patrons’ gambling habits. Video cameras and computers routinely monitor the gaming floor. A process called “chip tracking” involves betting chips that contain built-in microcircuitry that allows casinos to track wagers minute-by-minute. The casino also regularly monitors roulette wheels for statistical deviations. Casinos use these databases to better target advertising and track trends. To ensure the safety of patrons, casinos use various technological and organizational measures.

Security in a casino starts with the way that each game is played. Dealers watch each game and patrons and make sure that they aren’t cheating. Pit bosses and table managers supervise the games and look out for suspicious behaviour. These employees are closely monitored by higher-ups and are trained to spot any unusual behavior. This prevents anyone from stealing a slot machine from a casino. This is a major reason why the payout percentage of slot machines is so high in modern casinos.