Online Casino Spotlight

Chocolate Consulting is teaming up with internet security experts, VeriSign, to provide a plethora of security products for internet gaming. The software will protect gaming operators from costs related to denial of service and account takeovers. The two products in development include:

• VeriSign Identity Protection (VIP)
• VeriSign Internet Defense Network (VIDN)

VeriSign Identity Protection or VIP is a real-time authentication system that safeguards player’s accounts from being hacked and controlled by third parties. Aside from the primary costs, it also helps online casino operators save money from having to conduct a thorough investigation of account takeover. This product is used worldwide in many other industries but is currently being tweaked for gaming.

The combination of trust from VeriSign customers and protection make this an appealing option for casino operators. Chocolate Consulting is playing the role of advertising and marketing the product to online gaming sites. VIP will significantly increase the level of banking security that players are offered. A nice feature of the software is that it can be fine-tuned for mobile gaming applications without the need for additional hardware.

VeriSign Internet Defense Network or VIDN prevents Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks on gaming sites. These attacks typically result in a few hours of downtime. In the competitive gaming industry, an operator can lose millions of dollars during these few hours. DDoS attacks have evolved so much that they cannot even be detected or prevented.  In other sectors, VIDN has proven to be an extremely successful security measure.

The software has intelligent detection of DDoS attacks as well as remediation capabilities. Chocolate Consulting is also helping VeriSign to market this much needed program. In the past six months, the number DDoS attacks on gaming sites and intensity have increased considerably.

Chocolate Consulting and VeriSign have identified an area of online gaming that should have been addressed and evolved since conception. In addition to their partnership, together they are sponsoring the International Gaming Expo 2010 in London.

The result of the partnership between these two companies is an excellent, much-needed product for the online gaming industry. VeriSign is globally recognized as a name customers can trust. In an industry where large sums of money are flowing at all times, customers want to know that they are safe to play at certain websites. With the addition of the VeriSign logo, now they will gain a piece of mind.

On any given day in the surveillance room, Pit Supervisors and other officials will request operators to give special attention to a specific guest, area or activity. The Surveillance Supervisor or Director will make the decision as to the best method of handling the request. These requests occur often; sometimes they are false observations and others are a crime in progress.

Observing for Suspicious Activity

Observing a specific player or dealer for suspicious activity is a common request. Every request needs to be taken seriously and should be followed if it doesn’t interfere with higher priority activities like a crime in progress. One consideration to remember is that it could be a team or group operation. Therefore, all surveillance operators shouldn’t focus on the same person. The whole casino needs to continue to be observed.

If any criminal activity occurs, try to capture it from as many cameras and viewpoints as possible. These recordings may play the role as vital evidence at a later date. The Director of Surveillance must be notified of the incident immediately.

Utilizing Proper Etiquette

Remember, when calling management personnel or other departments use the proper tone, language and utmost professionalism when discussing the issue. The same is consistent with other departments when talking to surveillance. If any discourtesy does occur, report it to your supervisor.

Proper Protocol

Also keep in mind that no floor person should be calling surveillance personnel even if they witness crimes or cheating. The proper protocol is for them to report the activity to their Pit Manager or above. Regardless of the results, once the evaluation has concluded, report them to the Pit Manager. Sometimes even the Pit Managers forget that floor supervisors need to report all activity to them. Politely remind them of the proper chain of command.

On the other hand, floormen are required to call surveillance when they witness a dealer error that has occurred. According to their procedures, floormen must also report the incident to their supervisor. This is to confirm correct reporting to higher-level personnel and ensure another witness has been informed.

There are many different casino specific procedures and protocols to follow. The most important points are to be courteous, respectful to other departments and your co-workers, be diligent with your actions and have a good attention-to-detail. This combination will allow you to be successful and efficient within your job.

Although there are numerous cameras on casino properties that monitor everywhere monetary transactions are being conducted, ground security is also important. They must work in conjunction with the surveillance operators to ensure no criminal acts are being committed. Such acts include:

• Stealing
• Collusion
• Cheating
• Harassment

Each of these acts occurs on a daily basis at any given casino. Fortunately, surveillance operators follow a strict checklist prior to the start of their shift within the surveillance room to ensure all guidelines are met and procedures are followed. The most important checks include:

• Review the daily shift report
• Shift briefing
• Check all cameras
• Ensure cameras are recording
• Check for news alerts

The daily shift report is a report generated by surveillance operators outlining what exactly occurred on the casino floor during the previous shift. This tells the operators if they need to focus on a specific individual, group or area of the room. Reviewing the daily shift report is also helpful to ensure it’s up-to-date. Reports that are a day or two old rarely assist operators a few days later.

Checking the shift briefing log, allows the replacement operators to ascertain any new information or orders so they are prepared for the upcoming shift. Examining all cameras is a vital aspect of their pre-shift checklist. This ensures that all cameras are on, working, focused correctly, positioned in the correct area of the casino and there are no obstructions. This allows them to have a full view of the floor and can instantly focus on a specific location if needed.

Also, it’s important for surveillance operators to ensure all cameras are recording in case of a crime. The cameras provide valuable evidence against a criminal. Finally, surveillance operators always check for news alerts. These are usually provided by local law enforcement officials or other casinos. New alerts help protect casino patrons from dangerous criminals that may enter the casino property. They help the casinos identify any cheats or thieves that may be out to rob the establishment.

Casino surveillance is one of the most important departments to the business. They provide safety and security to the patrons, protect the casino against thieves and cheaters and make the casino an enjoyable hassle free experience. Technology has also greatly assisted casino surveillance and security by offering around the clock monitoring. This in conjunction with a watchful eye keeps casino properties safe and tourist-friendly.

One of the primary duties of a surveillance operator as well as all casino and hotel personnel is to protect its patrons from thieves and scam artists. The gaming equipment and tables are worth nothing if there is nobody there to use them. Consequently the gaming establishment’s biggest assets are its customers. Any negative feedback from one guess can turn into hundreds simply by word of mouth.

The Easiest Targets

Unfortunately humans everywhere are careless, especially when distracted in crowded places. Women leave pursues sitting unattended and men drop their wallets into easily accessible pockets. Tourists are especially careless when surrounded by lights, sounds and numerous distractions while wandering around the casino floor. These are the people that need the most protection.

Ironically the easiest targets for thieves and scammers are foreign nationals. They are aware that if they get caught stealing, pick-pocketing or scamming them, the foreign national is unlikely to return to the United States to testify in a trial.

What to Look For

Casino surveillance personnel are trained to spot individuals in crowded places that aren’t there for entertainment purposes. They walk differently, are looking at different things and are much more alert. They tend to be more focused on individuals than their environment. If there’s any suspicion, it’s not illegal for personnel to track the potential perpetrator.

Common Target Areas

Although a crime can be committed anywhere, the most common areas in a casino are at hotel check-in areas, valet areas and bell hop desks. They target these areas because of visitors arriving that are tired from traveling and guests leaving in a hurry, many of whom are hung over. This is a common area under surveillance by the employees, especially during busy periods.

Don’t Rule Out the Staff

Unfortunately the hotel and cleaning staff can commit the crime. Although this isn’t a common issue, it does occur. Maids, bellmen and others that go into the guest rooms can easily steal items. The casino cleaning staff can be suspects when coin bucket or purse thefts occur. They are usually working an unskilled job for low wages and are tempted by a bucket of money.

The bottom line is that the surveillance operators are well-trained to dealing with theft and scam artists. However to ensure you aren’t the next victim at a casino, mall or any crowded area, simply stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.

The Talking Stick Resort opened its doors on June 10^th, 2010 in Scottsdale, Arizona. It’s the most lavish casino in the area and is being compared to the several of the high-end properties found on the Las Vegas strip. The comparison is appropriate because the security system was designed by North American Video and M. Malia and Associates, the same designers used on the strip.

The casino boasts 240,000 square feet of gaming excellence complete with 497 premium guest rooms and suites. The resort also features a state of the art spa, a grand ballroom, several fine dining as well as casual restaurants and a 36 hole golf course.

The Security System at the Resort

The security system at the Talking Stick Resort features a 1,500 camera system with serverless storage solutions created by Pivot3. The specifications include 41 Cloudbanks and a 492 Terabyte storage capacity. The cameras are under the control of a NICE video management system.

This video surveillance system is highly sophisticated and well-designed rivaling many Las Vegas casinos. Since security is such a major contributor to the success and profitability of a casino; advanced, high-end systems like this are becoming increasingly important. North American Video is hoping to mitigate any security threats through the extensive technology offered by this equipment.

What Was Installed?

North American Video developed and installed a hybrid analog/digital video surveillance system. A few product demonstrations were given to Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community representatives as well as operators of the project.

How Does the System Work?

Cameras tape images taken from one of the 1,500 cameras throughout the casino. These images are recorded onto serverless computing infrastructure. The benefit of this is that the system provides storage and server resources within a single array. This reduces the amount of space needed for additional equipment within the server rooms.

The size and amenities offered by this resort rival many Las Vegas casinos on the strip. The experience provided by this establishment warrants a state of the art security and surveillance system. 1,500 cameras that view all areas of the 240,000 square foot gaming floor are sure to protect the casino and its patrons.

As casinos become larger; offer more amenities than ever before, they are going to need the surveillance industry to keep pace and offer advanced technology. The Talking Stick Resort is the first of many to implement these types of elaborate security systems.

The “eye in the sky” is on every table and almost every single player in a casino. Due to the large amount of cash that casino’s generate, this high-level of security is a requirement. A great deal of time, money and effort are spent to develop a top-notch security system.

Levels of Security

The first level of security is the game floor employees. Dealers, pit bosses, waitresses and security guards are all watching gaming patrons to ensure all rules are being followed. Dealers focus on their current game; looking for cheaters and thieves. Table managers are watching multiple tables at once looking for cheaters, watching the dealers, changing money and gambling accessories.

Pit bosses keep an eye on the table managers as well as look for betting patterns among the patrons. Meanwhile, the numerous cameras spread throughout the casino watch everyone. The only area of the casino that doesn’t have floor security constantly watching is the slots section. This is because slot winners are generated randomly utilizing computer chips.

The “Eye in the Sky”

Security cameras are mounted throughout the casino; in the ceiling, change window and doorways. The cameras can usually turn in a 360 degree motion and zoom in on specific players or areas of the casino. These are operated by security guards in a room filled with monitors. All video is recorded in the case that a crime occurs. This allows the casino to review the tapes and find the offender.

Tips to Ensure Rules are Followed

There are a few tips to ensure you will remain in security’s good graces. These include:

• Don’t touch gaming equipment
• Don’t reach across the table
• Don’t disturb others
• Don’t touch your chips after a bet has been placed

One of the most important rules is to not touch any gaming equipment such as cards, dice or other player’s chips. If you must touch something use only one hand and make it as visible as possible. Also, instead of reaching all the way across the table to grab something, ask the dealing to move it for you. This way you aren’t in the way of others and are less likely to spill drinks.

Another beneficial tip is to not disturb others while they’re playing. Although watching games is permitted, don’t disturb others while watching. Finally, never touch your chips

The internet opened a brave new world for gamblers. Suddenly, we can join in on our favorite table games, play the slot machines, or even participate in poker tournaments all from the comfort of our homes. With the invention of online casinos, one no longer needs to plan a vacation for a chance to gamble, you can gamble anytime and anywhere you can get an internet connection. However, anytime there is money involved, there is a small risk of theft, and on the internet that theft can mean more then just your wallet, your entire identity could be at stake.

The Risks of Gambling at an Online Casino

The majority of online casinos have several methods of protecting your private information, such as encryption, which jumbles your credit card number making it hard for a hacker to steal. However, there is always a small risk when submitting personal information online. Internet hackers can steal your private information. Your computer is also at risk. Worms and viruses are common on the internet, as well as online casinos. Worms can steal your personal information or take control of your computer, making it a gateway for hackers. Viruses can literally destroy the components of your computers hard drive.

How to Protect Your Computer When Gambling Online

Before gambling online chose an online casino that uses heightened security methods, most casinos will list this information on their website. Be sure the online casino has a contact number for their business so you can get help if you need it. It is essential that you only work with a casino that makes security a top priority. If you are unable to locate any information on their website which discloses the means in how they protect their clients, this is a severe warning sign.

Gambling at an online casino that has security measures in place to protect you is only half the battle. There are also software programs you can download and install on your computer for added protection against viruses, Trojans, and worms. Install an anti-virus software program that has routine or automatic scans. These programs will search your computer for any possible threat and remove it before it becomes a problem.

Some people shy away from online casinos because they feel the risk of modern internet crimes is simply too great and even trying out an online casino wouldn’t be worth it. While it is true that no website security is full proof, how risky are online casinos really?

The Risks of Online Casinos

There are some very real risks to playing in an online casino. For example, identity theft is a very real possibility anytime you are entering personal information online. Online casinos require a lot of personal information, such as your full name, address, credit card numbers, or bank account information. If your personal information gets stolen, you could be spend years trying to repair the damage.

There are other risks to your personal computer as well. The downloadable files that many online casinos use to play their games can come unknowingly loaded with malicious data. When you execute the program, you can unleash a very damaging virus on to your computer.

Safety in Online Casinos

While there is a small risk involved when gambling online, the majority of the online casinos websites are very safe to use. Online casinos companies spend a small fortune in software and other securities to protect their patrons. As long as you are gambling at a reputable site, then your risks are very minimal. However, less then reputable sites do not always use the same high levels of security as their larger opponents.

Be sure to research any site fully before giving away any of your personal information, even just an email address. If you cannot find the information on the casino’s website, then give them a call directly. They should be happy to explain their security policy, and if they can’t or won’t maybe you should look for another casino that possesses a higher level of security or a more diligent reputation when it comes to client confidentiality.

In addition to the casino offering protection to their valued clients, it is very important to obtain software for your computer that protects you on a local level. For example, installing a firewall, anti-virus software, and software designed at detecting malware in real-time will enhance your overall protection. This will ensure that you can enjoy a safe and potentially profitable experience at your online casino.

You likely hear the advice about not drinking while gambling a lot, and for good reason. Drinking while gambling can lead to some bad paths, but how bad is it really? Truth be told, that decision is up to you. You have to decide what you can handle, how you can play, and what is worth it. After all, there are both good reasons to have that drink, and good reasons why you should not.

Why Drinking at the Casino Is Not Such a Bad Thing

Those Drinks are Free

Everyone loves to get something for free, and it can be nearly impossible to pass up the opportunity. Most casinos offer alcoholic beverages for free. If you are a freebie hunter, you may want to consider having one drink just because you did not have to pay for it.

Drinking Reduces Your Inhibitions

While it is not a good idea to get drunk, especially when you are a new player, having one drink can give you a sense of calm. This is a good thing if you are new to playing in a casino when you are likely to be very nervous.

Why Drinking at the Casino is a Bad Idea

Drinking Leads to Rash Decisions

The more people drink, the less they tend to worry. This can be a very bad thing when your bankroll is involved. Players who have been drinking have a much higher chance of loosing track of their bets or deciding to go all in when they really shouldn’t.

Drinking Lowers Your Strategic Ability

If you are playing an intense poker game like Texas Hold ‘Em, you probably want to hold off on the alcohol. A lot of poker games require intense concentration and the ability to both think and act quickly. Alcohol impairs both your ability to move quickly and keep your concentration. Chances are you will play worse after you have had a view.

Other Players Notice Your Drinking

A lot of poker players see drinking as a way to take advantage of their opponent. While you may be able to play just as well after a drink or two as you would have sober, the other players will still be paying close attention to your moves. You do not have the advantage of being low-key when you are drinking at the poker table.

Gambling in an online casino is exhilarating. Modern technology has made it possible to visit a casino any time we want, day or night. Unfortunately, modern technology also made it possible for your identity to get stolen online, your computer to be hacked, and virus to destroy your hard drive. You probably know it is a good idea to protect your computer while you are playing in an online casino, but do you realize how important it really is?

Your Identity Can be Stolen

When you sign up for an online casino you give the casino a lot of your personal and financial information. Your full name, home address, phone number, date of birth, bank account number, routing information, and credit card numbers all go in to the application of your new online casino membership. While most online casinos employee the height of security protection, online hackers may still be able to retrieve your information. This means, that a hacker could have access to all of your private information and charge up a storm on your credit card or bank accounts before you even realize what has happened.

Websites Can Have Worms

Worms in a way are very similar to that can of worms you use to catch fish. A worm is deployed on a website and it hooks personal information. While not all of this information is used to steal your identity, it can be. Even if your identity is not stolen, you still open your computer to a whole host of other problems if you catch a worm while browsing the internet.

Downloads Can Carry Viruses

Most online casinos require you download their software. This software allows you to play online casino games seamlessly. Despite the best efforts of the casino’s IT department, a virus may occasionally be attached on to these files. Once you execute the file on to your computer, you execute the virus as well. This virus can literally eat away at your computer’s internal system, making the device unusable. It will take a vast knowledge of computer software and hardware, or a lot of time and money to correct the problem once the virus has worked its way in to your computer.

While most online casinos are completely safe to browse and play in, it does not hurt to take the extra step and protect your computer yourself.