Casinos are generally safe environments with extensive security measures, but they're also places where money flows freely—making them attractive to opportunistic thieves and scammers. These practical tips help you protect yourself, your belongings, and your winnings during your casino visit.
Physical Security
Protecting Your Cash
Before entering the casino:
- Divide cash between multiple locations (wallet, front pocket, secure bag)
- Don't flash large amounts of money
- Use a money clip or front pocket wallet instead of a back pocket
- Leave unnecessary cards and cash in your hotel safe
On the casino floor:
- Keep your wallet in your front pocket
- Be aware when someone crowds your space unnecessarily
- Don't set bags or purses on the floor
- Use purses with secure closures, worn cross-body
At ATMs:
- Shield your PIN entry
- Be aware of anyone hovering nearby
- Use hotel lobby ATMs rather than dark corners
- Count cash discreetly, away from the machine
Protecting Your Chips
At table games:
- Stack chips neatly with high denominations on bottom (harder to grab)
- Keep chips close to you, not on the rail edge
- Don't leave chips unattended, even briefly
- Count your chips periodically
Moving through the casino:
- Put chips in a pocket, not visible in your hand
- Don't carry open rack trays of chips
- Go directly to the cage when cashing out large amounts
Protecting Your Belongings
Slot machine play:
- Don't set purses on adjacent seats or machines
- Keep bags between your feet or in your lap
- Use a slot chair with your bag in front of you
- Don't leave items to "hold" a machine—they may be gone when you return
Personal items:
- Keep your phone secure and visible only when using it
- Don't leave jackets with valuables in pockets
- Use the hotel safe for items you don't need
Handling Big Wins
At Slot Machines
When you hit a jackpot requiring a hand-pay ($1,200+ in the US):
- Stay at your machine: Don't leave until the attendant arrives
- Be discreet: The machine lights and sounds already attract attention
- Have ID ready: Required for tax documentation
- Choose your payment method: Cash, check, or combination
- Request security escort: For large amounts, ask to be escorted to your car or room
At Table Games
After a big winning session:
- Color up: Exchange small chips for large denominations (easier to carry, count)
- Pocket chips discreetly: Don't make a show of your winnings
- Cash out at the cage: Go directly, don't stop to play more
- Request security escort: Available for large cash amounts
Large Win Protocols
For wins over $10,000:
- The casino may pay by check (safer than cash)
- You can request multiple checks
- Ask for a security escort
- Consider having winnings wired to your bank
Avoiding Common Scams
The Distraction Technique
How it works: One person distracts you (asks for directions, drops something) while an accomplice steals your chips or wallet.
Prevention:
- Be wary of overly friendly strangers
- Keep belongings secure before engaging with anyone
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is
The "Found Money" Scam
How it works: Someone "finds" a chip or cash near you and wants to split it. While you're engaged, an accomplice steals from you.
Prevention:
- Decline engagement with found money situations
- If you find chips, turn them in to security or the cage
Chip Theft at Tables
How it works: Thieves grab chips from the rail, often during a crowded craps game or when you're focused on the dealer.
Prevention:
- Keep chips away from the rail edge
- Minimize large chip stacks visible on the table
- Stay alert during busy, chaotic moments
Fake Casino Staff
How it works: Someone poses as security or management, asking to verify your winnings or ID in a back area.
Prevention:
- Real staff won't approach you randomly for verification
- Ask for a supervisor at the cage if anything seems wrong
- Never follow someone to an unofficial location
Parking Lot Thieves
How it works: Criminals target casino parking lots, watching for winners or following people to their cars.
Prevention:
- Be aware of your surroundings when leaving
- Don't count money in the parking lot
- Park in well-lit areas
- Use valet or request security escort for large amounts
- Vary your departure route and time
Digital and Financial Safety
Protecting Your Accounts
Casino accounts:
- Use strong, unique passwords for online casino accounts
- Enable two-factor authentication when available
- Don't save payment information on shared devices
While at the casino:
- Avoid public WiFi for financial transactions
- Don't enter banking info on the casino's guest network
- Log out of apps when not using them
Credit Card Safety
- Review statements for unauthorized charges
- Set up transaction alerts
- Use credit cards (better fraud protection) over debit cards for purchases
- Report lost/stolen cards immediately
Personal Safety
Drinking Responsibly
Why it matters: Impaired judgment leads to poor decisions—bigger bets, ignoring limits, and becoming an easier target.
Tips:
- Pace yourself—free drinks aren't a race
- Eat food to slow alcohol absorption
- Take breaks between drinks
- Stop drinking before you feel impaired
- Don't drive after drinking
Late Night Safety
Leaving the casino:
- Travel with others when possible
- Use well-lit paths and exits
- Consider rideshare over walking to distant parking
- Let someone know when you're leaving and your expected arrival
In your hotel:
- Use all door locks
- Don't open the door without verifying who's there
- Keep valuables in the safe, not visible in the room
Trust Your Instincts
If someone or something feels wrong, it probably is:
- Don't ignore gut feelings
- Move away from uncomfortable situations
- Ask casino security for help
- There's no embarrassment in being cautious
Using Casino Security
What Security Can Do
- Escort you to your car or room
- Monitor suspicious individuals you report
- Address disputes or uncomfortable situations
- Provide lost and found services
- Contact local police if needed
How to Contact Security
- Ask any casino employee to call security
- Look for uniformed security personnel
- Use in-house phones (often near elevators, restrooms)
- Report issues to the pit boss or floor supervisor
Don't Hesitate
Security's job is to keep guests safe. They deal with situations ranging from minor concerns to serious threats daily. Don't feel like you're overreacting—report anything suspicious.
Emergency Situations
Know Your Exits
Take a moment when you arrive to note:
- Emergency exits near your playing area
- The direction to the nearest exit
- Any obstructions or confusing paths
Medical Emergencies
Casinos have trained staff and often on-site medical personnel:
- Alert any employee
- Casino security will respond quickly
- AEDs are placed throughout the floor
Reporting Crimes
If you witness or are victim of a crime:
- Contact casino security immediately
- Don't confront suspects yourself
- Provide detailed descriptions
- File a police report for significant incidents
Hotel Room Safety
Arriving at Your Room
- Verify you have the correct room before entering
- Check that the door closes and locks properly
- Locate fire exits on your floor
- Note the fire evacuation instructions
During Your Stay
- Use the deadbolt and chain/bar lock
- Use the peephole before opening the door
- Keep the "Do Not Disturb" sign up even when out
- Don't leave valuables visible in the room
Safe Use
Most casino hotels provide in-room safes:
- Store cash you're not gambling with
- Keep passports and extra IDs secured
- Store jewelry and electronics when out
- Choose a PIN you'll remember but isn't obvious
The Bottom Line
Casinos invest heavily in security, but no system is perfect. Your awareness is your best protection. Stay alert, trust your instincts, secure your belongings, and don't let a winning night be ruined by carelessness.
The goal is simple: enjoy your casino experience and go home safely with your winnings intact.