The use of RTA (real-time-assistance) software, especially in the online poker community, is a widespread problem on the increase.
888poker is one of the poker industry leaders stepping up to tackle this issue head-on for our players.
In this regard, during 2023, 888poker refunded $362,893 to 4,068 players who lost to opponents using AI software in the form of BOTS or RTA.
| RTA tools help players make optimal decisions in real-time while at the poker tables. These tools can be apps or solver software using simple charts or game-theory optimal (GTO) strategy. |
888poker Cracks Down on Bots!
It’s clear that RTA tools give players an unfair advantage at the poker table. That’s why 888poker has taken up the mantle to crack down on players using this AI technology.
In this vein, we blocked 161 accounts for using AI (BOTS/RTA) software in 2023.
We are dedicated to continuing the fight in 2024, ensuring that all players have a level playing field when they sit down to play a game.
Implementing new technology to combat bots remains central to our efforts to ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable poker experience for all players.
888poker’s Commitment to Fair and Responsible Gaming
As we continue the charge in 2024, Matan Krakow, Head of Poker Offering at 888poker, expressed our commitment to responsible gaming issues facing online poker:
“Our continued progress in tackling bots stems from the understanding that it is crucial in order to ensure that 888poker continues to provide an enjoyable, safe, and level playing field for all our players”.
“This has been driven not only by our increased investment in our detection capabilities but also through the continued support and cooperation of our players, who have an important role to play in helping provide us with vital information about players they think are using AI and RTA”.
“It is not only important for us to detect and block accounts using AI, but also to make sure that players who lost to accounts using illegal software, get properly compensated. This year we paid approximately $250K to players out of our own pockets when it was not possible to retain the funds from blocked accounts”.
“We continue to consult with advisors who are top notch in terms of analyzing hand histories and detecting non-human patterns. Based on feedback we are receiving, we understand that after much work has been done on this front in the last couple of years, 888 is in very good shape compared to our competitors on this front and have a clean and safe playing environment”.
“It is an ongoing effort, and we will continue to do all in our power to ensure we keep poker fun and fair, and listening to our players will continue to be a key factor to progress on this front.”
