Magnet and coin-on-a-string cheating are two of the oldest methods in the arcade cheating playbook. They require no electronics, no software, and no specialized knowledge. Despite their simplicity, they remain effective on many coin pusher and token machines because operators focus their security investments on electronic threats while overlooking these low-tech methods.
Magnet Cheating: Still Effective in 2026
A strong neodymium magnet — available online for under $10 — can pull coins through the playfield glass on machines without magnetic shielding. The cheater holds the magnet against the glass and moves it toward the payout tray. Coins on the playfield are pulled toward the magnet, slide across the glass surface, and drop into the payout tray. The machine records no payout event because no payout was triggered — the coins simply moved.
Modern neodymium magnets are significantly stronger than the ferrite magnets used in the past. A magnet the size of a coin can lift several times its own weight. The magnetic field penetrates the glass or acrylic window easily.
Coin-on-a-String Cheating: The Classic Never Dies
The cheater attaches a thin, strong string or fishing line to a coin. The coin is inserted into the machine through the coin slot. After the machine registers the coin and the coin enters the playfield, the cheater pulls it back by the string. The coin is retrieved, and the process is repeated. Over a session, the cheater can “spend” the same coin dozens of times, building up a pile of coins on the playfield without any actual expenditure.
How to Block Both Methods
Magnet cheating is blocked by the magnetic shield — a thin ferrous sheet installed between the playfield and the glass. The shield absorbs the magnetic field, preventing it from reaching the coins. Coin-on-a-string cheating is blocked by the Gen2 coin mech monitor, which detects the abnormal timing of a string-retrieved coin — the coin passes through the mech at a speed that does not match normal coin travel.
If your coin pusher or token machine is showing signs of magnet or coin-on-a-string cheating, send me a message with your machine model and a photo of your setup. I will do a quick remote check for free. Every device comes with a money-back guarantee, official invoice, express shipping, and 1-on-1 technical support.
WhatsApp / WeChat / Phone: +86 158 1582 1587 — Engineer Wang
To discuss the best anti-cheat strategy for your specific arcade setup, message me directly. I offer a free remote diagnostic session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my machine needs a magnetic shield?
A: Test with a small neodymium magnet held against the glass. If coins on the playfield move toward the magnet, your machine needs a shield.
Q: Can a magnetic shield be added to an existing coin pusher?
A: Yes. The shield is custom-cut to fit your machine’s window size and installs with non-permanent fixtures in under 20 minutes.
Q: How do I detect coin-on-a-string cheating?
A: Watch for players who keep one hand near the coin slot in a consistent position, or who make a subtle pulling motion after inserting a coin.
Q: Does the Gen2 coin mech monitor work on all coin pusher models?
A: Yes. The monitor connects to the coin mech pulse line and works with all standard coin mech types found in coin pusher machines.