A casino, or gambling house, is an establishment where people can gamble and win money. Most casinos are located in places that are known for tourism and entertainment, such as Las Vegas, Monaco, Monte Carlo and Macau. Some casinos are also built within hotels, resorts and cruise ships. In modern casino operations, computers and video cameras are used for supervision of games. Some casinos use chip tracking systems to record the exact amounts of money wagered minute by minute, and roulette wheels are electronically monitored to discover any statistical deviations from expected outcomes. In addition to monitoring game play, modern casinos often employ physical security forces and specialized surveillance departments.
Gambling laws differ between states, but most require patrons to be at least 21 years old to participate in slot machine games or card games like blackjack and baccarat. Some states allow the games to be conducted online, while others regulate their operation through a licensed land-based venue or both.
Casinos are heavily regulated and have strict rules regarding their operation and security. They are prone to crime because of the large amount of cash they handle, and both patrons and employees may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion with one another or independently. Many casinos monitor the activity in their premises with video cameras, and they have a number of measures to prevent fraud, such as requiring all players to sign a waiver against unauthorized recordings.