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

Scam #35: Poker Bots (Automated Play Software)

How it works

Software programs that play poker automatically without human intervention. Bots use artificial intelligence, game theory optimal (GTO) algorithms, or machine learning to make decisions. Modern bots can operate 24/7 across multiple tables simultaneously, maintaining consistent optimal play that human opponents cannot match. Bots range from simple scripted programs to sophisticated AI systems that adapt to opponent tendencies. They are particularly prevalent on unregulated or lightly regulated sites where detection infrastructure is minimal.

Where it appears

Online poker (all variants)

On the record

In 2026, a major bot scandal was exposed on Ignition Poker where a sophisticated bot farm was discovered operating across multiple tables. The bots were reportedly active for years despite player complaints. Poker pro Martin Zamani was vocal about the scandal. Bot detection remains an ongoing arms race between poker sites and developers.

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.