A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. It can also refer to a building that houses such an establishment, or to the business that operates it. The term is also used for a range of other entertainment venues, including those that offer live sports events and concerts.
Casinos are often built near or combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops and other tourist attractions. In some countries, casinos are operated by government-licensed entities. Others are owned by private companies. Some of the largest casino complexes in the world are located in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
A major feature of modern casinos is the use of technology for security purposes. Video cameras monitor the gaming area and slot machines, and in some cases, the games themselves are automated or semi-automated. For instance, in roulette, chips with microcircuitry interact with electronic systems to enable casinos to monitor the amount wagered minute-by-minute and alert them to any anomaly; and the croupiers who conduct table games such as baccarat, trente et quarante, and blackjack are assisted by computer programs that make decisions on their behalf.
Some casinos, especially online, require players to verify their identity before they can withdraw funds. This process, known as KYC (Know Your Customer), typically involves checking that the information a player provides matches the details on their government-issued identification card or bank statement. Some casinos also ask for a telephone number or email address to contact the player if any issues arise.