A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. It may also be called a gaming house or a gambling hall. Casinos are often built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. In addition, they often offer live entertainment and sports events. In some countries, casinos are regulated by law.
Some states require casinos to be licensed or bonded. This is primarily to protect players from corrupt or dishonest operators and to ensure that the games are fair. Most licenses are awarded by state gaming control boards, but a few jurisdictions grant them independently. Some casinos are run by private corporations, while others are owned by governmental or tribal organizations.
Casinos can be a major employer, and some provide housing for employees. They are also a significant source of revenue for local governments. However, some people are addicted to gambling, and compulsive gamblers generate a disproportionate share of the industry’s profits.
Something about casinos seems to encourage people to cheat and steal, either in collusion or on their own. That’s why casinos spend so much money on security.
In addition to a large number of security personnel, casinos employ sophisticated technology to monitor their patrons and the games themselves. For example, betting chips with microcircuitry enable casinos to oversee the amount wagered minute by minute; roulette wheels are electronically monitored regularly to discover any statistical deviations from their expected results. Casinos also use video cameras to track the actions of their patrons.