Blackjack is one of the most popular cards games that can be won by players who are proficient in using the card counting techniques. Counting of cards, in blackjack, is one of the age old tricks to score an edge and turn the card game in ones favor. Numerous gadgets and devices have been invented to aid gamblers in this technique. Though card counting it is not considered as an illegal activity, but use of technology to count is definitely considered as illegal and against the ethics of the card game. The sophisticated iPhone card counting application available on the iTunes website is of great concern to the casino owners.
It all started when an American Indian run casino in California informed a casino in Nevada regarding the illegal use of a card counting application available in iPhone. The application in iPhone known as HiLo, can work in the most unobvious ways. It can be executed very stealthily, without alerting anyone in its proximity. The screen is usually shut when the application is in use and the player is alerted by vibration of the cell phone. The application runs in an off screen mode. The user should be well versed in using the keys, as with a gentle tap on the virtual buttons, the application begins its execution.
Casino owners now realize that it is not only the competition in their business which they have to manage, but also handle blackjack cheaters using technology to make high monetary bets. It is difficult for them to detect the usage of technology, sometimes due to the miniscule size of the device and sometimes because of the stealth mode of execution. They need to roll out policies to control the use of card counting technology which is difficult, since it works in an oblivious manner. It becomes essential for them to have a suspicious approach towards players who are frequently seen touching their apparel. Even though possession of cell phones is considered legal in casinos, there are policies governing their usage. Casino owners are wary of players who stick their hands in their pockets. Strict action is taken in Casinos when any is found guilty of using cell phones.
Counting of cards in a blackjack game is an arduous task amidst the countless distractions in a casino. However, one can try and keep the card count committed to memory, but the use of sophisticated gadgets is not allowed. This technology aided card counting method can convert an average player into a card shark. The worse aspect of this entire scenario is that it is difficult to detect which players are using devices, due to the sophisticated features offered by most of them.
Various counteractive measures have been taken by casino owners such as automatic shuffling of cards with the help of electronic machines. Under the Nevada law, using a device in a legalized gaming center is an offence punishable by court of law. Offenders can be imprisoned for a period between one year to six years. The other alternative is a fine of $10,000 for first time offenders.