Unlike poker or blackjack, for example, baccarat is predominantly a luck-based game in which little can be left tothe player’s control. Still, some tried taking even more unfair advantage.
Casinos invest millions in security to prevent any form of cheating, but this has not deterred determined players from trying their hand. Several methods have been used over the years, with some walking the fine line between skilful play and out-and-out cheating. The surprising thing would be if you ever wondered how to cheat at baccarat, given the lengths some players may go to in their attempts to beat the game.
This article considers three methods that perhaps could pass for cheating: edge sorting, card marking, and the use of electronic devices. While several gamblers consider that they are merely taking advantage of weaknesses in a game, casinos and legislatures often don’t see it quite that way.
Is It Possible to Cheat in Baccarat?
It is not impossible, though difficult, to cheat in baccarat. Unlike those skill games where a strategic play gives an edge, baccarat is strictly bound by predetermined rules and random card distribution, limiting how a player can manipulate the game.
Historically, some players have used techniques that take advantage of minor flaws in casino operations. However, modern casinos use strict security measures, such as high-definition cameras, automatic shufflers, and trained personnel to spot suspicious behaviour.
Yet, a number of players continue to make attempts to outwit the system. While some methods rely upon inside cooperation from casino employees, others depend upon technical expertise or deception. Player discussions about strategies and tactics often explore these grey areas, though the penalties for being caught can range from being banned from casinos to legal action.
Now, let’s look at three specific strategies that might be regarded as cheating at baccarat.
1. Edge Sorting – A Controversial Technique
Edge sorting is one of the most well-known techniques used to gain an advantage in baccarat. This method involves identifying small defects or inconsistencies on the back of playing cards. Some decks have minor imperfections in their design, which skilled players can recognise and use to determine high-value cards.
A player using this method would request the dealer to change some cards regularly, even based on superstition. In this approach, while tracking the rotated cards, a gambler is actually able to predict the upcoming results more accurately.
Edge sorting has been tried in some of the most famous cases: it was famously used by professional poker player Phil Ivey, first in London and then in Atlantic City, to win millions. Then, the casinos sued him for what they labelled as cheating. The courts came down on the side of the casinos, forcing Ivey to return his winnings.
Casinos have gone to the extent of using card decks with uniform edges, shuffling more frequently, and utilising automatic dealing machines as a way to prevent edge sorting.
2. Card Marking – The Classic Cheat
The card marking is more direct in the cheating method that involves physical tampering of cards for identification during play. In this regard, one can employ invisible ink, minute scratches, bends, and other changes that players use to recognise particular cards.
Because baccarat players never usually touch the cards, this type of cheating generally involves a crooked dealer. The dealer may slightly mark the high-value cards, or he/she may give some signal to an outside accomplice who then makes strategic bets.
There have been numerous cases in which casino staff were discovered helping players by secretly marking cards. Upon being discovered, both players and employees were severely punished. Punishment has included a lifetime ban and even court prosecution.
The casinos have also become capable of detecting marked cards with modern surveillance systems. Infrared cameras and UV scanners can easily find the invisible ink or changes, making this method risky.
3. Electronic Devices – High-Tech Cheating
Advanced technology has made cheating to become diverse. Others use electronic devices that predict or manipulate game outcomes.
To illustrate, someplace miniature cameras in automatic shuffling machines record the order and sequence of cards to enable the cheaters to analyse the method and predict the subsequent hand. The information is then transmitted to an accomplice with a strategic way of betting accordingly.
A well-documented case occurred at Marina Bay Sands casino in Singapore, where a group of individuals used electronic devices to cheat at baccarat. One player, known as the “sorcerer,” secretly recorded the deck’s order and relayed information to a “marksman,” who placed winning bets. The scheme was eventually uncovered, leading to arrests and prosecutions.
Today, casinos take strict anti-cheating measures, including randomising card sequences in games, using tamper-proof shuffling machines, and banning any type of suspicious electronic equipment on gaming floors.
Legal Ways to Gain an Advantage in Baccarat
While cheating is strictly illegal, several players discuss ways to gain an advantage in the game. These range from betting patterns and bankroll management to superstitious-based systems and none of these actually involve any manipulation of the game.
Examples include the Martingale betting system, where each loss is followed by a doubled bet with the hope of recovering previous losses. While this is not cheating, it does not change the game’s inherent randomness and carries a high financial risk.
Another approach is card counting, which works in blackjack but is far less effective in baccarat. With cards being constantly reshuffled and no decisions to be made by players that could affect the game’s outcome, there is little to no advantage gained from counting cards. The best way to play baccarat is to understand the rules, manage your bankroll wisely, and accept that the game is primarily based on luck.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not reflect those of Geek Vibes Nation. This article is for educational purposes only.
