When you walk into the lobby of a casino, you’re probably armed with a wallet full of cash and the intention of enjoying some pleasant gambling, followed by a few rounds of cocktails. But hours later, you might find yourself completely lost, with no idea what time it is or how much money you’re down. That’s because casinos are designed to manipulate you. They use sounds, lights, and even physical design to keep you inside. Here are nine ways they do it.

Beneath the varnish of flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos are built on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed patrons of their cash. For years, mathematically inclined minds have tried to turn the tables by harnessing their knowledge of probability and game theory to exploit flaws in a rigged system. But the best way to beat a casino is to start with a fixed amount of money that you’re willing to lose, and stick to it.

It’s also important to choose a casino that is licensed and adheres to the highest standards of security, ensuring that players’ personal information remains secure and private at all times. Moreover, online casinos are required to have high-end customer support teams, so that any issues can be promptly resolved. This ensures that you can enjoy your gaming experience to the fullest. To learn more about the best casino sites, read our reviews on this page. They’re reviewed by experts and verified by customers.