Arcade machines have long been a target for piracy due to the high value of proprietary games. To combat this, manufacturers employ a variety of anti-piracy measures. One common method is the use of hardware-based security, such as custom chips or dongles, which are required for the game to run. These components are often difficult to replicate, deterring unauthorized copies.

Another approach involves encryption and unique key systems. Games are encrypted, and the arcade machine's hardware must authenticate the game using a specific key. Without this key, the game cannot be played. Additionally, some arcade systems use tamper-proof designs, where any attempt to modify the hardware or software triggers a shutdown or renders the game unplayable.

Online verification is also becoming more prevalent. Modern arcade machines may connect to a central server to validate the game's legitimacy. If the game fails verification, the machine can disable it remotely. These layered security measures ensure that proprietary games remain protected, preserving revenue for developers and operators alike.

By combining hardware locks, encryption, and online checks, arcade machines effectively deter piracy, maintaining the integrity of the gaming experience.