Security in a casino begins on the floor where casino employees monitor the games and the patrons. Dealers and pit bosses watch the table games for signs of blatant cheating. They also record video feeds and can review them after the fact to see if there are suspicious activities or persons. Each employee has a higher-up to keep an eye on their activity.

Gambling dates back to the ancient world. The earliest forms of dice were astragali, carved knuckle bones, and six-sided dice. The concept of a casino as a place for gambling emerged in the 16th century, when it became a popular pastime in Europe. In Italy, aristocrats often held private parties at their private clubs, called ridotti, where they could gamble without being noticed by the public. Despite being illegal, however, nobles knew that the Italian Inquisition was likely to strike.

While casinos generate tremendous profits, many players become addicted to gambling. These people constitute approximately five percent of all casino patrons, and their losses can exceed a quarter of the overall revenue. Moreover, economic studies have shown that casinos have negative effects on communities, since they draw mostly from local players. Gambling can be bad for local economies because it diverts money from other forms of entertainment. Additionally, the costs of treating problem gamblers and lost productivity caused by gambling addiction can offset any economic benefits derived from casinos.

Many casinos offer incentives to large bettors. For example, big bettors are often offered free drinks and reduced transportation costs. They can also enjoy free cigarettes and drinks.