- The recent poker scandal surrounding Chauncey Billups raises the question: could a similar situation happen in blackjack?
PORTLAND – With the Chauncey Billups poker scandal hitting the news on Thursday, many are taking a break from cards. But is there a potential connection between what happened at these poker tables with how blackjack can operate?
The Billups poker case consisted of X-ray tables, infrared lenses, barcoded cards. So, while it’s unlikely to happen on a blackjack table, there are still possibilities.
Using a celebrity to make a rigged game seem legit – the recent scandal called them “face cards – could be used in blackjack, so it’s best to only play at safe casinos and with people you know.
Rigging Blackjack
Casinos would require insider collusion to pull this off, while mobile blackjack platforms would need software manipulation. Still, rogue employees would be the easiest way to get things going by marking cards or colluding with players at the table.
Similar to the poker scandal, infrared ink or barcodes that are visible with special glasses could dictate the next card in the shoe.
This would help players know the upcoming card – which is something that legal blackjack has already experienced with the Tran Organization. In the 2000s, they used infrared to mark cards, winning about $7 million before facing indictments for nearly 50 people.
Shuffling machines could be tampered with, but often face heavy regulation from state gaming commissions. Still, the machine could theoretically be programmed to place certain cards in position so that those who play by the book are at a disadvantage.
Rigged shufflers, as seen in the Chauncey Billups poker scandal could be present at blackjack casinos already, though the casinos have more to lose than to gain in these situations.
Signs To Look Out For
If you think you’re being cheated while playing blackjack tournaments, watch out for these signs.
- Dealer Behavior: Are the dealers tilting cards or using unregulated shuffling methods?
- Suspicious Players: Is there a person who is winning nearly every hand, especially in unusual betting patterns (hitting on 17, small bets followed by one massive bet)?
- Equipment Issues: Does the shuffling machine keep breaking down, is it making a weird sound or delay, or does it look like it has been modified?
- Special Tech: Look out for players wearing glasses or using devices at the table. They could be communication tools or special lenses.
How To Protect Yourself
In order to feel safe playing blackjack, only play at reputable casinos that post their revenue reports to gaming commissions. If there are any irregularities, they will face audits (often), helping you feel better about playing there.
In home games, bring a sealed deck of cards and insist on mixing up the decks. Examine foreign decks of cards (check for bends, smudges, or spots), and avoid playing with people you don’t know well.
In an online setting, stick to well-reviewed legal blackjack casinos that have random number generators or feature live dealer blackjack with a video feed.
Overall, it’s best to trust your gut. If the game feels “off” or players are acting suspiciously (not doubling down with a 10, or failing to hit on 11), trust your instincts.