3 True Stories About Slot Machine Vultures

Casino Vultures are evil humans who prey on the innocent player. They watch for casino guests who aren’t careful with their bankroll or their belongings. Half the time, these thieves aren’t even gamblers. They are looking to take any financial advantage made available to them. Every casino has them. Here are 3 True Stories About Slot Machine Vultures we can all learn from.

Story #1 – It Can Happen To The Best Of Us

Like anyone else who had been away for months, I was excited to return to Twin River last week. So, maybe I was a little too excited at first.

You can download all or some or all of your free slot play at many casinos all over the country. However, if you often download all your free slot play to a single machine, you must play it all on that machine.

That said, I first played my free slot when I arrived at the casino. I sat down and only played $35 of my $75. Not very lucky, so I cashed out.

I took my ticket and started walking when I realized I had left around $20 on that machine. So I returned to that slot machine to find some shmuck already playing my Freeplay. After a heated argument and calling for security, the man gave me my $20 and left before they arrived.

Moral Of Story #1

Know how the casino dishes it out before you play your free slot play. The problem above was mine. I assumed the free play left would come out on a different TITO (Ticket In Ticket Out) voucher, or I used all my freebies. So, before you leave that slot machine, take your ticket, and THEN check if any more credits are STILL THERE!

Story #2 – The Stupid Poker Thief

We stayed at Red Rock Resort for one year during a Las Vegas vacation. I love this place in Summerlin, NV. Great video poker, newest machines, face-up Pai Gow Poker, and great food choices. It also has an outstanding pool…..but I digress.

That morning, I played full-pay Bonus Poker for almost three hours. I usually get floor staff to watch my machine while I answer nature’s call, if you know what I mean. But, at this moment, I couldn’t find a staff member to help. There is only one solution – cash out and run, then return. So, I did.

I passed eight machines and realized I had left the ticket hanging out of the machine when I cashed out. But, of course, those incessant beeps told everyone in earshot, “Hey, here’s a free TITO – anyone interested.”

This also shows that intermittent breaks are essential to keep your focus. For example, I was getting tired after a three-hour session.

My $400 ticket was gone. To Red Rock Resort’s credit, their security staff went into hyper mode. And, in one hour, they had him tracked, guilty, and allowed him to return the money. But, unfortunately, he had returned to the Poker Room to play what he had just stolen.

Moral Of Story #2

Be in the moment before your next play. Always ensure the TITO ticket is IN YOUR HAND before leaving the machine. After this incident, I habitually pushed “cash out” with my right hand while holding my left hand at the ticket dispenser. I don’t move until that TITO is in MY HAND!

Related Post – Mindful Gambling For Slots and Video Poker

Story #3 – Can’t Count On Proximity

This story starts at South Point Casino Resort, a couple of miles on the Strip, south of the airport. This was a prominent local place and a family resort known for its equestrian events.

This time, my wife and I played slots next to each other – here on end and myself the next slot around the corner. We were so close I could have played her slot without leaving mine.

Luckily, my wife got a bonus. I leaned to my left to watch her. Within seconds, a local had put $20 in my machine and was playing it. He claimed he had been playing it all this time. My right foot was still in front of MY machine! Security quickly arrived and took care of the situation. The security staff told me this happens a lot. The less fortunate bring their family to the casino, and mom-and-pop work together to snatch tourists’ money.

Moral Of Story #3

Never think you are secure at your machine. Slot vultures are watching, waiting to make their move. And they are faster than you could ever imagine. But, for some, this IS their job.

Summary – 3 True Stories About Slot Machine Vultures

• Form habits to keep your TITO tickets secure.
• Know how the casino dispenses free slot play.
• Stay in the moment, and be mindful when cashing out.
• Take short breaks to keep your mind from getting drowsy.
• Be aware of those who sit, not playing and watching many machines.
• Don’t be “nonchalant” while playing. Be aware of those around you.
• This covers both slot machines and video poker.

Be careful out there. This post is intended to remind everyone to care for their money at the casino. But remember, most casino patrons are fun-loving and friendly players like you.

Binbin