Are common methods of cheating at poker legal?

Poker, being a game of skill and chance, has always attracted attempts to cheat, particularly in high-stakes games. Some common methods rely on physical manipulation, collusion, or exploiting technology to gain an unfair advantage.

One of the most well-known cheating methods is called card marking. Players subtly alter cards using tiny scratches, smudges, or invisible ink to identify their values during play. With marked cards, cheaters gain insight into other players’ hands, drastically tilting the odds in their favor. Another variation involves using specially designed cards that can only be read with the aid of discreet devices, such as contact lenses or infrared scanners.

It goes without saying that card marking is fraud and is absolutely not legal. Furthermore, the cards themselves will contain evidence of the marking that could be used to convict the cheater.

Collusion is another widespread form of cheating, particularly in live games and online poker. This involves two or more players working together to share information about their hands, allowing them to outmaneuver opponents. In live settings, collusion may involve signaling, such as tapping on chips, body language, or predetermined gestures. Online, players might communicate through messaging apps to coordinate their strategy in real-time.

Collusion is also highly illegal, and can result in hefty prison sentences if proved.

In some games, mechanical devices or sleight of hand may also be used. For example, a cheater might employ card-switching techniques or mechanical shufflers rigged to distribute favorable hands. These methods require extraordinary skill and are often difficult to detect without close observation.

But if they are detected, they are certainly not legal.

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