The Casino is a building where people can gamble and play games of chance. Some casinos specialize in certain types of gambling, such as horse racing or poker. Others offer a wide variety of games. Most casinos are regulated by law. Some are owned by governments, while others are privately operated. Some have a luxurious atmosphere, while others are more functional.
Because large amounts of money are handled within a casino, it is important to have security measures. These may include cameras, which are used to detect unauthorized activity and theft. Casino employees also watch patrons closely to make sure that they are following the rules. Dealers, for example, are trained to spot blatant cheating such as palming or marking cards or dice. Pit bosses and table managers have a more broad view of the games, checking betting patterns for signs of cheating or collusion between players.
Despite this high level of security, some casino patrons are tempted to cheat or steal in ways that violate gambling laws. Such violations can have a negative impact on the economy of a casino. Some studies have shown that the cost of treating problem gambling and the lost productivity caused by compulsive gambling can reverse any profits a casino may earn.
Some casinos offer special inducements to gamblers. These are called comps and can range from free show tickets to rooms in the hotel. In the 1970s, Las Vegas casinos were famous for offering discounted travel packages and cheap buffets to lure gamblers. These perks were intended to fill hotel rooms and maximize casino revenue.