Casino patrons are used to being watched, and eye-in-the-sky-style cameras are commonplace in these establishments. The original eye-in-the-sky was simply a one-way piece of glass in the casino ceiling that was used to monitor the floor for suspicious activity. Things have moved on somewhat, and advanced technology is used throughout casinos to collect data, and observe all manner of activity.
One thing many players wonder about is whether their wins are being recorded. Casino players often have suspicions surrounding games, and many have been known to blame the house when their luck runs out. All casinos have to abide by very strict rules and are audited regularly to check that games are operated fairly and with transparency. However, some doubts remain about whether players are being monitored, and what is done with the data collected.
So, do players have their wins and losses tracked in casinos online, and on land? And if so, what other activities are being monitored when you are on the gaming floor or in the casino resort?
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Do online and land-based casinos operate in the same way?
Casinos that operate on land or on the internet function in basically the same way. They both provide entertainment in the form of traditional and modern games. These games can be wagered on, and the player will either win or lose on each hand, or spin of the wheel.
Online casinos and those that are based on land or water also need to be licensed and regulated. However, the technology behind them is where they both start to differ.
Online operators such as Energy Casino can offer more gaming options as they are not limited by physical space. The amount of games offered by online casinos is only limited to the cost of developing them and server space.
Land-based casinos use technology such as RFID and NFC which can make tracking of slots and chips easier, and also player preferences. Online casinos also collect data through automated systems and software.
Do casinos track your wins and losses?
The answer depends on how and where you play. For instance, if you visit a casino as a one-off on a trip to Las Vegas, it is unlikely much of your activity is going to be recorded. Of course, the cameras will pick you up as you enter, and you will be checked to see if you have been banned before. All of this is done automatically without your knowledge.
As for tracking wins and losses, this does happen, but only if you play online, or if you have a player’s card. Online casinos store data about all of your activity, but the land-based establishments have to rely on your love of rewards.
Player’s cards, or reward schemes, allow the casino to see everything you do in their resorts. This isn’t necessarily something to be concerned about though.
Why would casinos want to track your gaming activity?
There are complex laws surrounding gambling in India, the US, and other countries in the world. All casinos are monitored by the appropriate authorities to make sure everything is above board and legitimate. The casinos themselves also monitor activities in their establishments to create a safer and better environment for their guests, and employees.
Not all monitoring needs to be seen as sinister, it is very often done to enhance the overall experience, and improve customer retention. The reasons for monitoring wins, in particular, can range from understanding variance to wishing to reward players.
If a player is betting big and often, then the casino management may wish to introduce themselves. This helps to build loyalty and to make the guest welcome. Alternatively, if you were winning big and on a roll, you may be approached with the offer of a comped room or suite. This is done with two things in mind, to improve customer loyalty, but also to keep you around so the casino can win its money back.
What other activities are casinos monitoring?
Between NFC technology, the casino app on your smartphone, and the player’s card you insert on your arrival, the house knows almost everything you are doing.
The casino can track which games you like to play, how much you spend on each visit, what you ordered in the restaurant, and how many times you visit each month.
This data can then be used to transmit offers to you via the mobile app, and to know when to comp you a drink or something more. The casino uses the data to understand how much value you bring to their business.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that new thermal eye-in-the-sky cameras would be installed in casinos to show people who may have Covid. So, you can see that technology is used for all manner of observations.
Online casinos are monitoring you from the moment you first log in. They will look to see how you arrived. For example, did you click on a link or from an organic search?
They will also record what games you spend most time and money on, and how much you typically wager on each spin or bet.
Should you be worried about the casino monitoring your activity?
If you are counting cards you should probably stop because those cameras are monitoring you, but most players don’t need to be too concerned.
There is some innovative slot technology being used now, including facial recognition. This can be used to weed out previously banned players, but it can also recognise VIP guests, and treat them accordingly.
Much of the data that is tracked is used to try and improve the guest’s experience. For instance, if you are visiting regularly then you may receive an upgrade on your room. If you gamble on a particular cricket team online, then you may receive a free loyalty bet from time to time.
Summary
While it is clear that casinos collect data and track wins and losses, it isn’t necessarily something to be suspicious about. If you are planning to use an online casino, and remember, beginners should play free slots first, you should expect your wins to be recorded.
However, win data in online or traditional casinos can be used to check that the games are operating properly and fairly, and also to spot valued players who should be recognised and rewarded.
Just remember, if you are on a hot streak and receive a comped suite, it’s probably because the casino wants to win their money back.
