Technology has advanced in many ways over the years, impacting almost every industry with new software, devices, or even just updated versions of pre-existing tools. The casino industry is not different; in fact, it has probably seen the biggest and one of the quickest growths as a result of the shift from classic brick-and-mortar casinos to the ability to play blackjack online.
In the modern day, we are seeing tech evolve increasingly at a far quicker rate, meaning industries are, and will continue to, be shaped in rapid time. With that being said, today, we will be taking a look at 9 ways that casinos use technology for security and gameplay integrity.
Random Number Generators
In order to ensure that the results of all slots online and physical casino games are fair, casinos implement a piece of technology known as a random number generator, or RNG. This generates a constant stream of random numbers from which the outcomes of digital casino games are determined, ensuring that the results of play are randomised and unpredictable. Thousands of random number sequences are produced each second, even when the game is idle.
Independent Testing Labs
Before slot games can be released to the market, they must be put through a series of tests using a variety of tech that will ensure the fairness of the game.
These tests are performed by an independent third-party company, simulating millions of outcomes from the game to confidently say that the game matches the mechanics it advertises. They also check that they align with regulatory standards, only allowing games to be released once they have passed.
Secure Embedded Systems
All of the modern casino games featured in online casinos are designed on extremely secure hardware that ensures a secure and consistent gameplay experience. Anything in relation to user details and information held by casinos is completely encrypted, which is done in order to prevent any unauthorised access. The firmware is stored securely on memory chips that cannot be altered without formal procedures and only by authorised personnel.
Server-Based Gaming
Many of the online and land-based casino games are connected to centralised servers that track real-time gameplay, recording outcomes, the return frequencies, and play features. For physical machines, if something were to occur that was outside the typical pattern and expected results, it would be flagged on the centralised system, notifying someone to check and resolve the issue. This is also done in online casinos, notifying an engineer if a game is malfunctioning at a frequent rate.
RFID Technology
In some table games at land casinos, chips are embedded with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags that communicate information when placed on designated betting areas. It will automatically allow the casino to verify the chip’s authenticity and detect any counterfeit chips. It also means that human error can be reduced if the table monitors prize returns automatically, ensuring that all of the game events are logged correctly. It’s not a widely used technology in all casinos around the world, but it has started to be integrated into a few and may begin to spread worldwide.
Surveillance Analytics
In many of the more high-tech, modern casinos, high-quality surveillance cameras are paired with analytics software to monitor and track gameplay. The cameras will help to detect suspicious behaviour, such as improper dealing, unauthorised chip handling or even attempts to tamper with machines. It is a great piece of technology that casinos are beginning to use more frequently, helping to assist workers in ensuring that protocols and procedures are met to maintain a consistent and fair gameplay experience.
Online Game Servers
Online game servers maintain a detailed log of activities and gaming events, such as timestamps, RNG seeds, bet amounts, and outcomes. This enables engineers to identify issues and easily fix them once they find the source. It can also help to detect any form of software bugs, preventing any form of disputes, and ensuring that outcomes follow the programmed logic.
Browser and App Integrity Checks
In order to make sure that players are not using any form of modifications when it comes to their apps or browsers, integrity checks are completed. These internal checks will look for any changes in the code, modified scripts, plugins, or any form of tech that could manipulate gameplay. If it is detected, it will be flagged, and users will be blocked from accessing the site or app.
Geolocation Technology
Online casinos must be able to detect a user’s location whether using mobile devices or PCs to ensure that they do not access any games that have been banned within that region. This is done through IP tracking, GPS data, and WIFI triangulation to confirm a user’s actual location. If the system detects inconsistencies, such as the use of spoofing tools, gameplay will be blocked to maintain legal compliance.
