How the Casinos Beat Card Counters

FAQs

How do casinos catch card counters?

Casinos look out for signs a player is counting, (i.e., increasing bets towards the end of the shoe) and hire ex-counters to help them identify others. Online casinos also use software that monitors players’ moves and wagers with optimal blackjack strategy.

Do casinos beat up card counters?

Despite what Hollywood films show, casinos do not beat up card counters. Usually casinos will ask you to flat bet for the rest of the game, or request you leave as the worst-case scenario.

Are Continuous Shuffling Machines (CSM) rigged?

No, and it wouldn’t make sense for a casino to rig these machines. CSMs make the shoe truly random, so it’s impossible to count cards in blackjack with these shufflers.

Do casinos shuffle after every hand?

Most casinos do not shuffle after every hand, as it reduces the number of games that can be played per hour. Fewer hands mean the casino gets less money, and there are other ways casinos can deter counters.

Do automatic shufflers change the blackjack odds?

While the blackjack odds of a game remain unaffected, card counters lose their 1% edge when automatic shufflers are introduced.

Can a casino kick you out for card counting?

Casinos are private establishments, meaning they are within their right to ask you to leave. Most casinos will usually ask you to stop playing at the blackjack tables. Players incorrectly assume card counting is illegal and they will be imprisoned, but it’s not in the casino’s interest to lock up players.

What happens if a casino catches you counting cards?

Contrary to popular belief, most casinos won’t kick you out. They still want your money, so they will try various alternatives to recoup their losses and limit your advantage. Flat betting, changing the dealer, adding decks, and frequent shuffling are all ploys casinos use to throw you off your count. If these still don’t work, then the casino may add you to a blacklist and ask you to leave.