Part I: Card Game Cheating · Collusion & Electronic Cheating at Card Games

Scam #27: Smartphone App Collusion (Concealed Use)

How it works

A player hides a smartphone on their person (in a pocket, on their lap, in a bag) and uses it to receive real-time information during play. This may include text messages with hole card information from a confederate, access to a hacked shuffler’s camera feed, consultation of strategy charts or solvers, or communication with an external advisor. Players may pretend to check messages while actually receiving critical game information. In livestreamed games, a player might access the stream with a delay to see opponent hole cards.

Where it appears

Poker (especially livestreamed games), all card games

On the record

Mike Postle was repeatedly observed staring into his lap during suspicious hands at Stones Gambling Hall, leading to theories he was receiving hole card information on his phone. The 2025 WSOP implemented updated electronic device rules specifically banning charts, apps, and electronic assistance in tournament areas.

Published as a detection reference for surveillance, compliance and gaming-operations professionals. Thresholds and tuning are set by the property. Nothing here is instruction — the method is described so it can be recognised.