Are Casino Chips Microchipped?

The invention of casino chips can be traced back to the early 19th century, during the time of the Gold Rush. Since then, they’ve been an essential part of gambling halls. Before modern practices were implemented, casino chips were manufactured with a myriad of materials, including ivory, bone, clay and paper. Today, they’re molded together by resin and installed with high-tech software. 

Having evolved from traditional tokens to modern tech, the evolution of casino chips mirrors the progression of online casino games. While state-of-the-art chips can scan fingerprints and track their location, most online casinos have introduced live dealer games, bringing a real-life dealer’s authentic experience to your screen. Another welcomed addition is the wide variety of casino games, which has extended far beyond poker, baccarat and roulette. This article discusses why microchipped chips are becoming prevalent at casinos.  

The Technology Surrounding Microchipped Chips

From security protocols to improving user experience, there are many reasons why introducing microchipped chips is revolutionizing the industry. A common problem casinos face is counterfeit chips or gamblers taking them home and not returning them. Microchipping is an effective way of eradicating these risks and it comes with additional benefits — not only for the casino, but also for the gamblers.

A common question regarding the technology surrounding chips is: “Do casino chips have RFID?” The answer to that is usually yes. Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is the primary tool used when it comes to tracking and monitoring.  

Through tapping into radio waves, establishments can access a wealth of information, ranging from the frequency of visitors’ gambling activities to real-time data, including monitoring the number of players around specific tables and adjusting the level of staff to cope with the ebb and flow of traffic. As a result, casinos are now streamlining their process to ensure a seamless service.

For casino goers, microchipping can act as an effective bankroll tracker. Why? Because RFID chips automatically register transactions and instantaneously update the player’s balance. Compared to non-microchipped chips, gamblers now have access to in-depth information on their performance, which comes in handy when entering the latter stages of games like poker and roulette. 

An RFID poker chip’s ability to track and monitor play allows casinos to catch onto gambling addiction and offer support when needed. In contrast, microchipping also enables casinos to establish effective loyalty programs and offer customized benefits and rewards for frequent visitors. For example, offering poker enthusiasts seats to exclusive games and high-roller events.

Does Microchipping Improve Security?

Not only can microchipping enhance the gambling experience, but it can also provide numerous ways to bolster security. As previously mentioned, counterfeit chips have been a common problem. Through unique identification codes prescribed to each chip, scammers have little to no chance of replicating RFID chips. The individual authenticity of each chip provides a domino effect of security stability.

Because RFID chips are both tracible and individually unique, they’re tamper-proof as casino systems can distinguish the authentic from the fabricated, meaning casinos are finding it increasingly easier to spot fake chips.

However, the absence of trial and error means there’s always room for mistakes when it comes to new technologies. That’s why casinos utilizing RFID technology are taking extra precautions to block loopholes, protect personal data and ensure scammers can’t manipulate the servers and manufacture their own chips. 

To combat these possibilities, most modern chips are embedded with authentication protocols through passwords or identification methods like fingerprint access. Regarding data security, RFID systems are heavily encrypted to prevent unwelcome guests from gaining access. 

Confidential data, such as a player’s address and bank details, is not required. Instead, the data collected only features the chip’s betting history, not the player’s personal records.

Should I Play on Online Casinos?

With convenience and regular releases of new games driving the popularity of online casinos, the last decade has seen a significant swing in gamblers going from brick-and-mortar to digital casinos. Unlike traditional casinos, which often maintain the same layout and games for years, digital casinos offer a fresh and exciting way to gamble, with multiple new games to play every month.

Then there are the rewards and bonuses that regular casinos often fail to offer. For example, most casinos, such as BetMGM, provide a sign-up bonus to get you started on the ground running. With offline casinos, you’ll often have to pay an entrance fee before entering. 

Regarding popular casino games like poker, blackjack and roulette, digital casinos offer a wide variety of themed tables and variations of each game, like Texas Hold’em, Omaha and Seven-Card Stud. Picture playing Texas Hold’em on a James Bond-inspired table — that’s possible with online gambling.

Gamble Online on BetMGM

Want to play casino games online? BetMGM is the perfect one-stop shop to enjoy all your favorite gambling activities and possibly even introduce you to new ones. And just like RFID technology, the BetMGM platform is encrypted with the latest security.

Register today and enjoy a selection of themed tables, bonuses and live dealers. Whether you prefer online slots, poker, bingo, roulette or blackjack, you can enjoy a seamless experience on any device, be it a laptop, tablet or phone.