Arcade games have long been a battleground for competitive players aiming to set high scores. However, cheating and score manipulation have prompted developers to implement robust anti-spoofing measures. Here are the most common types:

1. Hardware Verification: Many arcade machines use tamper-proof hardware to detect unauthorized modifications. This includes secure chips or sensors that alert operators if the cabinet is opened or altered.

2. Software Checks: Games often employ checksums or cryptographic signatures to verify that the game code hasn’t been tampered with. Any mismatch triggers an error or resets the scoreboard.

3. Score Validation Algorithms: Some systems analyze score submissions for impossibly high values or unnatural patterns, flagging suspicious entries for review.

4. Online Leaderboard Authentication: Modern arcades link to online leaderboards that require player authentication, such as QR codes or unique IDs, to prevent fake submissions.

5. Camera Surveillance: Physical monitoring via cameras deters players from using external devices or exploiting glitches, as their actions are recorded.

These measures help maintain fairness and integrity in arcade gaming, ensuring that high scores reflect genuine skill rather than cheating.