Hacked And Hoisted: More Crooks Target Virginia Gaming Machines

Written By Russ Mitchell on February 16, 2025
Gaming Machines Stolen

As the new Virginia casinos open their doors to customers, they are equipped with state-of-the-art security measures to combat the increasing incidents of hacking and tampering with the less-regulated gaming machines in the state.

Following a series of gaming machine thefts reported by 7-Eleven clerks in Fairfax County from December 29 to January 24, arrests were made by the police. Based on evidence, it appears that two individuals from Maryland were involved in either forcibly opening the gaming machines on-site or transporting them onto a truck before fleeing the scene.

Norfolk police are currently seeking assistance in identifying two individuals who unlawfully entered businesses during nighttime hours and absconded with gaming equipment. These incidents took place consecutively over the course of three nights within the city.

  • The Willoughby Inn, situated at 1534 W Ocean View Avenue, 2:25 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 6.
  • The East Beach Bar and Grill is situated at 3501 E. Ocean View Avenue, and it is currently 5:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7.
  • On Thursday, February 8th, at approximately 4:40 a.m., the Airport Quick Mart, situated at 2504 E. Little Creek Road,

In addition, the Norfolk Police made sure to upload surveillance camera images on their website.

If you have any information about the burglars or vehicles involved, please contact the Norfolk Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP. Alternatively, you can submit a tip via the P3Tips mobile app.

Virginia Gaming Machines: Cybercrime Unit

Why opt for a crowbar when a computer chip suffices?

Local reporters in Chesapeake are receiving limited information from the police regarding the hacking incident on Virginia gaming machines that occurred over the weekend. WTKR, a Hampton Roads station, learned about the hack through the police scanner on the evening of Sunday, February 11th. Dispatchers reported that two individuals were employing a device to consistently achieve winning outcomes.

It appears that the Chesapeake cheat code team utilized an algorithm, resulting in a sum exceeding $800.

WTKR inquired about the Super Bowl Sunday gadget grab, however, the police spokesperson declined to provide any further description.

Hackers will find it challenging to succeed in the northern region due to the recent launch of Rivers Casino Portsmouth. This casino operates round the clock and boasts a robust security system, including the presence of a City of Portsmouth police substation.

Machines have been a Virginia grey area

Convenience stores, bars, and restaurants in Virginia may feature games such as “Fishy Loot,” “Lucky Fruit,” and “Living Large.” These skill game cabinets bear a striking resemblance to video slot machines. However, gaming companies assert that players’ success in these games is determined by their skill rather than mere chance.

The gaming machines have been involved in numerous lawsuits, prompting Virginia legislators to seek regulation for the recent crime targets as well.

During the pandemic, the state granted permission for retailers to retain machines as a means of generating revenue. However, now they are requesting either regulation or removal of these machines.

Photo by Shutterstock Image
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Russ Mitchell

Since 1997, Russ Mitchell has been involved in news and sports coverage in Iowa. During his time, he served as the managing editor for a highly esteemed community newspaper in the state for 11 years. In 2021, he joined PlayIA as a lead writer and managing editor, eager to delve into the flourishing gaming industry in Virginia.

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