Part II: Table Game Cheating · Roulette Cheating Methods

Scam #1: Classic Past Posting (Late Betting)

How it works

The cheater places or adds chips to a winning number AFTER the ball has already dropped into the pocket and the outcome is known. Typically executed by a team of two or more: one player distracts the dealer (by asking a question, spilling a drink, or creating a commotion) while a second player quickly places chips on the winning number. In some variations, the cheater uses sleight of hand to slide a chip from a losing position to a nearby winning position. The most vulnerable moment is when the dealer has “tunnel vision” — their head is turned toward the wheel to identify the winning number, leaving the layout temporarily unwatched. Expert past-posters use misdirection and practice the move thousands of times to make it appear fluid and natural.

Where it appears

All roulette variants (American 00, European single-zero, French)

On the record

Past posting is one of the oldest documented roulette cheating methods, dating back to the 19th century. It remains the most commonly attempted roulette cheat today.

Published as a detection reference for surveillance, compliance and gaming-operations professionals. Thresholds and tuning are set by the property. Nothing here is instruction — the method is described so it can be recognised.