Online Poker Security: How Advanced Encryption and Biometric Technology Are Protecting Players
Reminiscent of the early 2000s, the online poker industry in the United States is booming once again. Market projections estimate that the industry will reach $183.30 billion by 2034, expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 14.9%. This rapid growth is fueled by evolving laws and regulations that provide greater clarity for operators, allowing them to invest in innovation and security.
For example, a key development in the industry is the adoption of alternative payment methods, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. These digital assets offer enhanced security, faster transactions, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional payment systems.
However, despite these positive trends, online poker platforms still face significant security challenges. According to a 2024 State of Poker survey, while 66% of respondents believe that online poker sites are “safe and secure enough,” 34% expressed concerns about various risks. Among the top concerns were bots and cheating (24%) and the safety of deposited funds (10%). Other player-based issues, such as ghosting and collusion, were also frequently cited.
Security issues in online poker
These security concerns are not without merit. Online poker operators are constantly fighting sophisticated fraud tactics that disrupt fair play. A notable case highlighting this issue is Bot Farm Corporation (BF Corp.), a Siberian enterprise founded by Russian students that provides botting services to players. In a Bloomberg article, journalist Kit Chellel describes how BF Corp. developed an operation that automated poker gameplay, replacing human players with artificial intelligence.
The presence of bots in online poker threatens the integrity of the game by giving certain players an unfair advantage. As these bots become more sophisticated, they can analyze vast amounts of gameplay data, making strategic decisions that surpass even the most skilled human players. This has led poker platforms to invest heavily in anti-bot technology and security measures to preserve fair competition.
Aside from bots, data breaches have plagued online poker platforms like PokerStars. According to information provided to the Maine Attorney General, in 2023, a data breach exposed 110,291 individuals, compromising sensitive personal details such as names, addresses, and Social Security numbers.
Security experts warn that cybercriminals can use this stolen information for various fraudulent activities, including identity theft, phishing attacks, unauthorized purchases, and even obtaining loans under false pretenses. Although PokerStars stated that there is no indication the data was misused, the company offered affected users third-party identity protection services for 24 months to mitigate any potential risks.
Ongoing security efforts by poker platforms
In response to these ongoing security threats, major US poker platforms have introduced advanced security features to protect their players and the integrity of the game. Americas Cardroom (ACR), for one, has implemented a multi-layered security strategy that includes bank-grade encryption to protect sensitive player information, captcha verification and user interface modifications to disrupt bot activity, shutting down data-mining bots that attempt to collect live game data, and blocking virtual desktops and remote access tools to prevent unauthorized account takeovers.
Additionally, Americas Cardroom offers a unique Player Protection feature, designed to safeguard users from predatory tactics. With this feature enabled, opponents’ identities remain hidden until the player has joined the table and posted a big blind. This prevents experienced players from targeting weaker competitors. Importantly, Player Protection is universally applied across all cash games and cannot be disabled.
Meanwhile, PokerStars has taken a different approach by focusing on biometric security. The platform now has a next-generation mobile app that allows users to log in using fingerprint or facial recognition, eliminating the need for traditional passwords. Biometric authentication is becoming an increasingly important tool in combating fraud and identity theft. According to Trua, a company specializing in digital identity solutions, biometric verification helps prevent fraud and compliance violations, deter bots and deepfakes, which are becoming more common due to generative AI, and provide players with privacy-focused authentication methods.
With online poker becoming an increasingly lucrative market, trust and security will be critical factors in sustaining long-term growth. Players are now more aware than ever of potential risks, and platforms that prioritize robust security features will ultimately gain a competitive edge in this booming industry.
