Cheating in illegal card rooms?

[DoctorK]

Here are some questions for anyone who plays regularly (or, uh, maybe knows someone who plays regularly) in illegal card rooms -- especially those that are player-dealt.

Have you witnessed (or suspected) any cheating?

In what form (mechanics dealing, collusion, etc.)?

If I were to play for the first time in an unfamiliar surrounding such as I have described, in the 5-10 or 10-20 ranges, what should I be on the lookout for?

Thanks!

[Jeffage]

In general, anywhere outside of a casino with unknown players there is some danger of being cheated. Thats what u pay rake at a casino to prevent...u get clean games (mostly), guaranteed money, little chance of violence, etc. I'd take a friend the first time to be safe but most likely it will be ok. As for cheating, the best book on this subject is "Gambling Scams" by Darren Ortiz...covers everything u could ever want to know on the subject in a variety of games (and plain old scams) and is a fascinating read. Listen for snapping sounds, watch for collusion (best hand, etc), watch the deck being cut, etc. If you feel uncomfortable, leave, dont confront anyone. Get the book, it explains all.

Jeff