FBI Points Out Online Poker Problems
The USA anti-gambling lobby looks determined to block online poker despite the fact that it has been proven that poker is primarily a game of skill and not a gambling game determined entirely by luck. It seems that their next move is to accuse online poker of encouraging cheating.
One of FBI agents who works in the cyber criminality division has recently presented a paper to the American Congress that claims cheating at online poker is very possible. He went on to describe how this can be implemented.
He said that the online poker was susceptible to manipulation and fraud. He mentioned that technology enabling players to engage in fraud is available to anyone.
He brought an example where a group of two or more players can collude during a poker game in such a way that they ensure that other members of that group win the game and defraud other players of their money.
He suggested that any new legislation that permits online poker should require online poker sites that are looking to obtain the license to include technology on their websites that should be sufficient to prevent any possibility of cheating or fraud.He pointed out that online poker providers should be responsible for protection of their clients' interests.
In response the Poker Players Alliance (PPA) pointed out that the paper misconstrued current online poker technology, and called upon proper licensing of online poker rather than prohibiting it. The PPA also mentioned that poker sites use credit databases to prevent underage gambling and that there is no evidence of organized crime being associated with online gambling. No doubt the debate will go on.
Meanwhile, Partypoker grabbed Poker Operator of the Year title at recent EGR Awards show. PKR was specially commended by the judges. Several other top poker rooms including Poker Heaven and Ladbrokes were nominated for the award.
