HOW TO CATCH A CARD CHEATER

So how does one catch a cheater in the act? The answer is simple - don't keep your eye on them.

Any cheater worth his salt wouldn't make a move while you burn his hands (watching closely). Great card cheaters have a lot of nerve and solid technique. They also build rapport with you, developing a charming and relaxed attitude that puts you at ease. But it's in these moments of relaxation when the wool is pulled over your eyes, because that’s the moment your eyes and your thoughts are elsewhere.

So if you suspect someone of cheating, stay relaxed. Tension is instinctive, and if there’s too much tension in the room, they are far less likely to make a move… What’s more, you might suspect the wrong person, and be holding all of you attention on the wrong person.

The cheat needs to feel you’re none the wiser, and just as susceptible as every other victim he's cleaned out.  

In the clip below, Paul Newman illustrates this point effectively. He appears to be drunk and aloof when he sees his mark ring in a cold deck (Bring in a stacked deck. It's called a "cold deck" because it's been sitting, untouched, waiting to be switched in). But the mark doesn't realize who he's trying to cheat. The best. The Carrie Watson* you might say.

*The Carrie Watson. The Best; anything or anyone of high quality or high attainments. From the old Carrie Watson House in Chicago. (The Big Con: The Story of the Confidence Man by David W. Maurer)

P.S If you're at someone else's game, and you spot a cheater, it's best to come up with an excuse and go home. There's no reliable way to tell who else is involved, or whether or not they're dangerous, or if they brought muscle, or fire power. The rule being, dont play with people you don't know. 

P.P.S The best way to avoid being cheated is quite simple. Don't play.