Marked cards are a common method of cheating in poker, especially at the higher stakes and at casinos. There are many different techniques that cheaters use, and you should always be on the lookout for them when you’re playing at a casino or a private game.
First, they’ll use small, barely noticeable cuts or bent edges to make it look like they’ve put some marks on the back of a card. This is a simple and old trick that cheaters have used for decades. However, it’s a great way of getting around some of the modern security measures used in casinos.
Cheats can also mark cards in other ways, such as subtle markings or smudges. They’ll also try to make important cards stand out from the rest, so they can win the game more easily.
These marks are easily spotted by experienced poker players and can be seen even from close range. These marks can be difficult if a player does not have special glasses, or if the lighting isn’t clear enough.
Cheats will use marked cards that have been prepared in advance but aren’t available at the time of play. They may also make small changes to the back design so the marks are only visible when you look closely. These kinds of decks are called “juice” decks, because the ink they’re printed with is lighter or darker than usual.
There are also more complex decks, such as those with video-luminous marked cards. These can be seen with the naked eye, but they are more effective when using a black light or special filters.
If you’re suspicious that a player is marking their deck of cards, don’t be afraid to ask them for a show. This will increase your chances of spotting cheaters before they make any moves that could indicate they are up to no good.
It is also a good idea not to ignore markings that aren’t obvious like tiny, barely visible cuts and bent edges. It’s also possible to catch a glimpse of the marks while doing a natural move, such as giving a card from one spectator to another or pointing to the top of the deck when making a point.
These are all signs that you can tell if someone is cheating before they take over the game. If you notice any of these signs, you should leave the table immediately and cash out your chips.
You should never accuse anyone else of cheating. It is not the right thing to do. It is not only insulting, but also dangerous.
In addition to the classic ways of marking a deck, there are many new and more imaginative methods that cheaters are coming up with these days. Although it is impossible to predict what they might be up to, it is a good idea not to ignore these tricks and to learn how to spot them when they are in action.