Arcade machines represent significant investments for operators, necessitating robust security features to protect against theft, vandalism, and unauthorized manipulation. These security measures are multi-layered, encompassing physical, electronic, and operational safeguards.

The most common physical security feature is the locking coin door. This heavy-duty metal door secures the cash box and is typically accessed with a tubular or barrel key, which is less common and harder to duplicate than standard keys. Behind this door, the cash box itself is often a separate, locked container. Additionally, many cabinets feature locks on the back door or access panels to prevent entry to the internal components, including the printed circuit board (PCB) and power supply.

Beyond simple locks, operators frequently use tamper-evident security seals. These are placed on screws, coin chutes, and access points. If removed, they leave a clear "VOID" message, providing a visible indicator that the machine has been interfered with. This deters and helps identify internal tampering.

On the electronic front, security is built directly into the game's software and hardware. Many PCBs have built-in security chips or encryption that ties the game software to the original hardware. Bypassing these often requires specialized mod chips or custom firmware. Furthermore, modern arcade machines connected to the internet for leaderboards or remote monitoring may employ digital encryption to protect data transmission and prevent hacking.

Operational security is also crucial. This includes the strategic placement of machines within a well-lit, high-traffic area under video surveillance. Regular maintenance checks by staff for broken seals or signs of forced entry form a critical human layer of defense.

Together, these common features—physical locks, tamper-evident seals, PCB security, and vigilant operations—create a comprehensive system designed to safeguard the valuable hardware and revenue inside these classic entertainment cabinets.