BigFreebies"Freebie Diva" loves to gamble, but she doesn't like to get ripped off! Here are some tips and advice to make sure YOUR winnings stay in YOUR pocket, courtesy of BigFreebies!

Casinos are fun, but filled with con artists and scammers. How can you protect yourself against these conniving Casino thieves? Follow these simple rules and have a safe vacation!

Rule # 1: Don't make yourself a target. Avoid carrying bags that say "I am carrying money," Keep one hand on the top of your bag at all times. The Prevent Crime Index: How to Protect Yourself Against Pickpockets advises women NOT to carry your wallet in your purse. Conceal it in a coat or sweater pocket where it does not show a bulge. They also caution men not to constantly pat their wallets as this draws attention to the thief.

Rule #2: Anyone has the potential to steal from you. That sweet little old lady smiling next to you at the slot machine may be your worst enemy.

Rule #3: Pay attention. We let our guard down as we wait in line to cash in our chips, focusing on the activity happening in the cage ahead instead of the person next to you asking you directions to the bathroom.

Stop and think: why is this person asking ME directions? I don't work here! This is a typical scam where one person taps you on the shoulder and asks you an inane question while his partner casually removes your wallet or takes your chips off the top of the counter. Swindlers have even been known to be as bold as stealing your chips RIGHT AT the casino window!

Rule #4: Winning is Distracting and thieves look for this distraction! Pay special attention at:

Slots: You've been pulling that one-armed bandit all day and you FINALLY hit a big score! You notice a single quarter falling to the floor and automatically, by reflex, bend over to pick it up. A thief reaches over and grabs your $500 winnings and walks casually away. The thief was the one who dropped the quarter at your feet to distract you! You've been scammed by the "drop a quarter" trick.

Tables: Watch your chips at the tables! One of the most famous rip-off games is called the "tap glass". With a quick flick of the hand, a thief puts a glass with tape on the bottom on your stack of chips, walking away with YOUR chip taped to THEIR glass!

Keeping alert and focused on your winnings will prevent you from being yet another Las Vegas scam victim.