Have you ever strided into the Luxor or Mohegan Sun brimming with confidence and a wallet full of cash, plans for an enjoyable, sensible night of gaming and a couple rounds of drinks? Hours later, you’re not sure what time it is, how many drinks you’ve had or what happened to your money. You walked into the casino a rational person who makes reasoned financial decisions on a daily basis, but you somehow ended up throwing hundreds of dollars away at the roll of a dice or spin of a wheel.

What’s worse is that casinos know exactly how to keep people in the gambling zone, using everything from sounds and lights to physical design to manipulate their customers into spending more money than they intended. Some of these tactics are downright devious, and others might even be illegal.

For example, slot machines are designed to produce “near wins,” or two matching symbols that come tantalizingly close to a jackpot. These trigger the brain’s reward system and make players feel like they’re on the verge of a big payout, motivating them to continue playing.

Fortunately, there are some tricks you can use to avoid these traps. First, research the various types of games offered at a casino before making a deposit. This will help you determine if they suit your preferences. You can also look for customer support that’s available around the clock. If you’re going to claim a casino bonus, check the terms and conditions to make sure there are no hidden fees or high wagering requirements.