How to Cheat Slot Machines: Is It Really Possible?

Slot Machine Cheating Methods

Thousands of players have tried through the years to find how to cheat slot machines. Indeed, the illusion that you can manipulate a physical cabinet by using external devices looks real. Later, software experts tried to hack online slots, and some of them claim that they have succeeded!

In any case, there is no evidence that a device or a technique is capable of delivering guaranteed results over casino games in the long run. But the subject is amusing and even curious to those who love conspiracy theories. So, here are the most popular methods of slot machines, which we strongly don't recommend:

Using A Coin On A String Trick

Here is a trick that actually worked for a certain period of time at the dawn of the physical slot machines. The player puts a coin on a string and inserts it in the cabinet, pulling it back out just as it is detected and the machine has authorized a spin. This worked for some time before game developers set safety mechanisms and casinos assigned guards to look for scams.

Employing Shaved Or Fake Coins

This fraud had dubious results but is one of the most widespread tactics in the past. Players used "shaved" ones of a lower value. The machine mechanism detects the coin as real and of a higher value, allowing play. Thus, spins cost less than usual, and the House Edge is neutralized.

Fake coins is another way to trick the machine, which eventually evolved into far more serious illegal acts. Those who mastered the craft created coins of cheaper material with the same size, shape, and weight but with no value. Louis Colavecchio is one of the most notable persons who used that trick, but he was lately caught creating fake dollar bills.

Top-Bottom Joint Technique

This is a clever "cracker" device often used in non-attended facilities with slot machines. It consists of two parts: top - a metal rod q-shaped at one of its ends, and bottom - a long wire. The wire-end is inserted in the Coin Chute, while the q-shaped piece through the Coin Slot.

This action activates a weak spot of most machines from a certain era and may initiate a jackpot payout. Or, it can cheat the machine that there is ongoing maintenance, which usually results in a full release of the stored coins. This trick was quickly discovered because it always leaves the machine's system jammed or with ongoing defects.

The Coat Hanger Method

These thin coat hangers had limited success, but in theory, they can mislead the slot's system. By inserting the carved way of the device in the Coin Slot, the machine may release a payout or register a credit for a spin. This defect was quickly discovered and removed, but players continued to try the trick for many years after, making it a popular myth.

Carmichael's "Monkey Paw" Technique

Named after the notorious Tommy Glenn Carmichael, who used to manipulate slot machines for nearly 2 decades and steal millions. He had several inventions crafted to manipulate the internal systems of the cabinets. The "Monkey Paw" is the most famous, widely used, and successful of those tools.

Monkey Paw is a carved wire that is to be inserted in the Coin Chut. If that is done successfully, the wire will interact with a micro switch, which will trigger a payout or even a jackpot. The same effect can be achieved by reaching this slot's element with the help of a guitar string threaded through an air vent.

The Light Wand And Yo-Yo Methods

Light Wand is another device by Tommy Carmichael cleverly designed for slot machine cheating. It can be a small flashlight or another type of handheld light-reproducing device. It's used to blind a special sensor located behind the Coin Chut. This trick usually results in the release of an additional portion of coins.

The Yo-Yo method is also quite popular, and according to some gamblers, it's efficient even today! It's a variant of the Coin on String technique and also requires the same approach. Only this time, the Coin is left to fall to the bottom of the machine while it's attached to a string. Then, the player can pull it up and down, initiating spins without spending more coins.

Piano Wire Technique

That's not a myth, but it is impossible to be done without consequences. It was tried successfully only once in the 1980s by men who managed to open a slot cabinet. They attached piano wires to the internal clock that counts the spins, stretching the other ends via the payout chut. Thus, they manipulated the spins and won the jackpot but were arrested shortly after that!

The Bill Validator Hack

Hopefully, you have fun reading about how to hack slot machines! Here is another tool that has been tested in different forms. Many slot machines accept coins but also bills via special validator slots. One of the techniques is to wrap the bill in a way to pull it back and reuse it. However, the more common one was to modify the bill in order to deceive the machine and get a $100 credit by using a $1 note.

Replacing Or Manipulating The Machine's Computer Chip

This is actually a real story that happened between 1976 and 1983 when Dennis Nikrasch or Dennis McAndrew obtained over $10 million from that scam. He bought a popular slot machine and took it apart in his garage to learn how it works in detail and spot potential weaknesses.

He found out that the operational chip could be re-programmed and hired a team of skilled fraudsters to manipulate the chips of hundreds of machines. He raided Las Vegas casinos for years before finally being caught in 1986 and convicted to 5 years in prison.

Manipulating The Machine’s Software

Software manipulations are pretty much the modern equivalent of what Dennis Nikrasch did with chips. Modern machines also use micro hardware but are loaded with complex software. So, to hack a slot machine, many players possessing certain skills decide to mess with the software and re-program payouts or jackpots.

Slot Machine Cheat Codes

Ronald Dale Harris, another person that history will remember as a slot cheater. He was an engineer working for the Nevada Gaming Commission in the 1980s and 1990s, and as such, he had access to the slot machines' source codes. Mr Harris knew how to use cheat codes to activate small payouts.

His scheme was successful for years, and casinos didn't even know what was happening. But, as it often happens, greed has ruined it all! In 1995, Ronald's partner won intentionally or by mistake (we'll never know) $100,000 on a keno game, and the scam was finally discovered.

Exploiting Software Bugs (e.G., Miss Kitty)

"Miss Kitty" is a favorite term for many slot machine cheaters as it describes the biggest jackpot won caused by a software glitch. Pauline McKee, a 90-year-old lady from Illinois, hit $41 million in 2015, but the casino refused to pay the money. She played the Miss Kitty slot machine in the Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo.

Software bugs are rare but can be used for machine manipulation, mostly in land-based casino facilities. This is the reason why cabinets go through frequent maintenance, especially if they pay more frequently than expected. Another story is about the engineer Ron Harris, who installed a hidden software switch in 30 machines and used his partners to steal money from different casinos in Las Vegas.

Hacking RNG (Random Number Generator) Cycles

Well, that's a tricky one, possible for skilled hackers only or with the help of a slot programmer. The RNG cycles are random, but some games designed by smaller studios have cracks in the source code. Hackers use the so-called PRNG Cracker app software to identify these weaknesses and take advantage.

They implement statistical analysis based on sophisticated algorithms to determine when the pseudo-random generator will choose a seed that will lead to a larger payout. Similarly, a slot programmer could install a software device to predict the outcome of a spin and signal players to increase their wagers.

Using Blunt Force

This is rather a myth than a reality, especially with nowadays sophisticated slot cabinets. The concept is that you can hit the machine hard while reels are spinning to disrupt its normal functioning. In theory, that should lead to a payout of random size. Well, this will only attract attention, so don't try it out!

Laws Regulating Slot Machine Cheating

Today, the number of registered slot machine cheats decreases due to more complex software and mechanics used for their development. However, there are enthusiasts who are still seeking a shortcut to winning jackpots. In the following paragraphs, I'll introduce the types of fraud regulation and the responsible authorities.

Criminal Offenses

As you already found out, there are various ways to manipulate slot machines in online or offline casino establishments. Whether some are only theoretical, others actually worked for a few minutes or a couple of decades. In the eyes of law, there are two main types of criminal offenses:

Fraud And Theft

Several activities can be categorized as theft and fraud, including robbery, burglary, suppression, and possession of certain articles. Making gains or causing losses by deception is strongly related to cheating slots, and most scammers are convicted by articles from that part of the law. Keep in mind that in some regions, these crimes are as serious as violence, public disobedience, and even murder, as fraud is in exceptionally large volumes.

Tampering With Gambling Devices

This is a variation of fraud, also seen as malicious mischief or criminal damage of a third-party property. Slot machines and any other gambling products are owned by casinos or their developers in case the cabinets or tables are only leased. So, if found guilty of tampering with gambling devices, the person faces at least several charges and a potentially serious conviction.

Jurisdiction-Specific Regulations

Different legislative bodies regulate online slots and gambling in general, but many of the laws are similar, aiming to protect regular players. In the next lines, I have dissected 4 of the main regions according to their gambling communities, level of regulation, and strictness of the law in terms of scams.

United States

The US betting and gambling market is one of the largest and most rapidly developing, especially since PASPA's revoke. The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992, or the Bradley Act, was struck down in 2018 by the Supreme Court of the United States. At the same time, gambling is regulated by federal and state laws.

The Interstate Wire Act of 1961 has been amended multiple times to better reflect modern reality. It was enacted initially to allow law enforcement authorities to battle gambling across state lines. There are exceptions from the Act coated through the decades.

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act from 1988 was voted and enacted to arrange disputes about gambling on Indian territories. The National Indian Gaming Commission currently regulates all activities, including licensing, control, and law enforcement on the territory of the casino facilities within Indian Lands.

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act from 2006 regulates online gambling activities, including slots. Although it was designed to initially prohibit these transactions, today, the Act is more like a base in case of unlawful acts. That would be any operator offering online gambling without the necessary license or in a state where games of chance are still prohibited.

United Kingdom

The Gambling Act of 2005 governs all online gambling transactions in the UK. Regulation is standardized, and the full power is given to the Gambling Commission, the strictest administrative body worldwide. It's responsible for licensing the operators who have coveted the necessary standards.

The UK Gambling Commission can also revoke licenses, fully or partially, and ban companies from operating on the territory of the country. The administrative body also assigns secondary agencies, such as fairness auditors and responsible gaming advocates. It looks closely to prevent crimes related to online slots, gambling, or sports betting.

Europe

Most countries part of the European Union have legalized online gambling fully or partially. Each government decides what games, software providers, and casino operators should allow and license. Some countries have their own gambling commission, while others use the services of reputable agencies registered offshore. Here are some of the acting gaming commissions on the European territory:

• Malta Gaming Commission
• French Autorité Nationale des Jeux
• Spanish National Gambling Commission
• Swedish Spelinspektionen
• Danish Spillemyndigheden
• Estonian Tax and Customs Board
• Joint Gambling Authority of the German Federal States
• Romanian Oficiul Național pentru Jocuri de Noroc
• Bulgarian State Commission on Gambling
• Portuguese Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos

Australia

Gambling regulation in Australia is extremely strict, and in general, all services are prohibited. The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 settles certain exceptions for entities under federal control and after obtaining a license. Each state decides how strict the regulatory policy to be, and some of them, like New South Wales and Victoria, constantly amend the federal law to protect gamblers.

Regulatory Authorities

One of the main principles of safe online slot play is to find a dedicated and licensed casino operator. You can easily check the license in the website's footer section, along with other security-related details. A license and an audit seal prove that the operator adheres to stringent player protection standards

Gaming Commissions And Authorities

I have already mentioned some of the top gambling authorities across Europe, but only some of them have power outside their own countries. Reputable regulators have intercontinental influence, and their logos in the casinos' footers inspire trust. Here are some of the major online gambling regulators worldwide:

• Malta Gaming Authority - the MGA has solid positions in Europe, Asia, and South America. 
• UK Gambling Commission - the UKGC has the reputation of a strict and trustworthy regulator body. It works with the best brands on the market.
• Alderney Gambling Control Commission - the AGCC is an offshore regulator that takes care of the credibility of all licensed organizations.
• Gibraltar Regulatory Authority - the Gambling Commissioner has a worldwide reach and ensures fairness, regulation, and player protection.
• Government of Curacao - it has issued several Master Licenses to Curacao-based regulators. They are authorized to oversee and license casino operators from all over the world.
• Kahnawake Gaming Commission - a Canadian regulator with reach outside North America. Its main responsibilities are to license and regulate online casinos, ensuring player protection and integrity.
• Casino Regulatory Authority of Singapore - established in 2008, the CRA controls general casino activities and fights against gambling-related crimes, money laundering, and other illegal acts.
• Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau - monitors the rapidly developing gaming industry in Asia.
• Joint Gambling Authority of the German Federal States - the GGL was founded in 2021 to regulate one of the new gambling markets in Europe. It coordinates the efforts of local state authorities and provides a base since gambling in Germany still faces many restrictions.
• Estonian Tax and Customs Board - the ETCB is rapidly increasing its reach in Northern and Eastern Europe. Besides operating and licensing casinos in Estonia, it is also recognized in the Baltics, Finland, and other countries.

Legal Recourse And Prosecution

Legal actions are usually taken by the law enforcement authorities of each country. In the US, Canada, and Australia, courts operate on state and federal principles. Countries that are part of the EU operate under the articles of the TFEU Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, but prosecution and conviction are still done according to local laws. Penalties vary by country and depend on the severity of the crime as well as its frequency.

Interpol And Cross-Border Enforcement

INTERPOL is heavily involved in the cross-border neutralization of entities related to illegal betting or gambling crimes. The agency officers track individuals or groups of people known for having trouble in such activities. They successfully cooperate with law enforcement authorities in countries across continents.

INTERPOL has different tools and expertise to identify patterns suggestive of illegal activities. The network created with the help of government staff makes the agency effective. A good example is the SOGA operations organized by INTERPOL in 2020-2021, which led to over 19,000 arrests.

Do Cheat Codes For Slot Machines Really Work?

First and foremost, using cheat codes for slot machines is illegal and may result in multiple legal charges. Messing with the games' source code is difficult and requires internal knowledge. Therefore, the crime weight may significantly increase, and with that, there is a risk of going to prison.

I highly advocate wise and responsible gambling and refrain from using prohibited methods. Indeed, such an opportunity might look extremely tempting, but just like with casino games, it will be ineffective in the long run. Instead, you can use mathematical strategies and systems to decrease the House Edge and optimize your play!

How Casinos Detect Slot Machine Cheaters?

Operators have more than one tool to catch online slot cheats, including help from ex-cheaters. This "reverse strategy" is actually quite effective if you want to catch a wolf, you must become one. These individuals work as consultants and earn good money for disclosing pattern practices and identifying potential criminals.

The modern automated surveillance systems are also quite effective against slot machine scams and cheats. They are based on a network of tens of HD cameras that provide coverage of all angles and all machines across the floor. These systems are often packed with sensors that track signs like sweating, nervous tics, and dilated pupils.

Have you heard of CARDS? No, not poker cards, but the Casino Anti-Cheating and Recognition System! They are useful for detecting signs like those mentioned earlier and for identifying individuals, often disguised, with criminal records. CARDS is the base of blacklisting since casino staff could easily miss a banned person.

AI technology and guards on site are also useful, especially in larger casinos like those in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Monte Carlo. They both can find telltale signs and complement the other systems. The biggest companies use combinations of all tools to cover all ends and make sure that fake plays are excluded.

How To Make Sure A Casino Is Fair And Doesn't Cheat Yo

Casinos do a lot to protect themselves from slot machine tricks and cheats, but players should do the same. Reputable and regulated operators can be trusted, and ideally, all of them would fall into that category. However, in the real world, fraud is even more widespread. Here is how to ensure that you are on the safe side when gambling online!

Verify Casino Licenses

Advise number one: always check for a valid license! Information about that should be available in the footer of the casino site with a license number, validity or date of issue, and responsible authority. I also recommend double-checking the pinned details on the regulator's website. Only that way you can be certain that your play is monitored and protected!

Check The Slot Machine's Payout Rate

The RTP rate or Return to Player indicates the theoretical probability of the machine paying a portion of your bets in the form of winnings. A good coefficient is 96% and more, especially for a highly volatile game. Still, keep in mind that these rates are calculated on the basis of billions of spins, so they are true in the long run.

Furthermore, software providers often release the same slot with different RTP rates to improve their market reach. The difference between the highest and lowest values can be dramatic and often above 10%. Each casino decides which version to include in its library, so always check the RTP rate before a new real money session!

Read Online Reviews

The best way to get acquainted with a new casino or slot game is to read reputable online reviews. Here on SlotCatalog, we draw water from the source to provide accurate and easy to understand information. Moreover, reading the experience of other players will give you an idea of what to be careful about and whether to spend resources on the operator and game in the first place!

Be Cautious Of Strange Slot Machine Behavior

Despite assurances, slot machines can be rigged by software developers, casino operators, or other players. This is applicable for slot cabinets in land-based halls, as well as for digital games in online casinos. Therefore, you should start with low bets and see how the machine works.

If you spot any behavior that does not correspond with what is considered normal, you should stop your play immediately. If you believe that you have been scammed, you must contact the casino operator and keep whatever digital evidence you might have, screenshots, gameplay history, etc. If the casino management is not responsive enough, you should contact the regulator that issued the relevant license.

Conclusion

Seasoned gamblers have their tricks for gaining advantage if the game allows it, but that rarely includes slot cheats. On the contrary, sometimes it's much easier to beat the machine honestly instead of hunting for cracks in its armor. Most of the tactics described in this article exist but they are more legends and myths than valid decisions.

So, my advice is to stop searching for how to cheat slot machines, but to learn how to play them wisely. Moreover, you must ensure that the platform you are willing to use is safe and secure and the slot machine comes in its highest payout variant. The rest is luck and some fair bonus deals offered by the best casino sites!