Slot machine smuggling in Italy: Tax inspector allegedly helped from inside

In the Cosenza area of southern Italy, a fraud scheme run by a slot machine distributor and operator has reportedly come to light. Police acted on a court order against 15 suspects. Prosecutors allege that hidden circuits installed in the machines kept some bets from ever reaching the official monitoring network.

According to the investigation, two separate electronic setups were in use. One reported gameplay to the official network, while the other kept bets that were subject to tax off the record. Wireless remotes and cloned smart cards were used, and the machines were also prevented from shutting down when they lost their connection to the official network. The machines' tamper protection was reportedly bypassed with simple glue and plastic ties.

The most striking allegation involves an official at ADM, Italy's gambling regulator. The official is alleged to have told suspects in advance when inspections would take place. This allowed operators to remove the hidden parts and restore the machines to a legal appearance before inspectors arrived.

The investigation also covers claims that electronic cards seized as evidence were returned. It is alleged that their records were erased and their counters reset so they could be put back into use. The charges against the suspects will be evaluated by the court.