A report from Prophecy Market Insights indicates that the US poker industry is on an upward trajectory. Between 2024 and 2034, the online poker market is forecast to expand at an annual growth rate of 14.9% to reach $183.30 billion by 2034. This rapid expansion is driven by a greater demand for online poker, bolstered by changing attitudes toward gambling, technological advancements, and a shifting legal landscape. However, as the online poker market flourishes, so does the importance of ensuring player security.
In the past, operators like PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker dominated the US online poker industry. But today, the market is fragmented, with only a few states offering regulated online poker. Despite this fragmentation, the industry is thriving, and one of the ways poker platforms are differentiating themselves is through robust security measures. While the State of Poker Survey on online poker security has revealed that two-thirds (66%) of players trust online poker sites, the remaining one-third (34%) report concerns over cheating and pointed to the safety of deposited funds. Here’s a closer look at how leading online poker platforms are addressing these security concerns.
Banning the use of virtual machines
As mentioned above, the biggest concern for online poker players is maintaining the integrity of online games. In response, established US poker platforms are implementing stricter security measures designed to keep games fair and protect players from cheating. In 2023, operator ACR Poker took a significant step by banning the use of virtual machines (VMs) and tools that facilitate remote viewing during gameplay.
Virtual machines are often used by cheaters to gain an unfair advantage, as they allow them to run poker bots or gain access to third-party software that can “read” the game or make decisions automatically. Moreover, tools like Team Viewer that enable remote viewing — allowing players to see others’ hands or share information outside of the game — are now prohibited, further leveling the playing field. These security upgrades ensure that only human players are engaging in the game, making it more difficult for bots or colluders to manipulate the system.
Implementing two-factor authentication
Another security measure that has become standard across the online poker industry is two-factor authentication (2FA). This process adds an extra layer of security to player accounts as it requires a second form of verification in addition to the usual username and password. This typically involves sending a one-time code to the player’s mobile phone or email, which must be entered to access the account.
2FA reduces the risk of unauthorized access to player accounts, even if a password is compromised. Major poker platforms, including PokerStars, PokerStake, and Ya Poker, have adopted 2FA as part of their security protocols. As a result, these platforms can guarantee that only authorized users have access to accounts, protecting players’ personal information and funds from cyber criminals. For players, enabling 2FA provides peace of mind that their accounts are protected against hacking and fraud.
Enabling cryptocurrency payment methods
Another significant innovation in the online poker industry is the adoption of cryptocurrency as a payment method. Cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH) boast numerous benefits, including enhanced security, privacy, and faster transaction times. With blockchain technology, ETH transactions are recorded transparently and immutably. As such, it’s nearly impossible for hackers to alter transaction details.
Poker platforms like CoinPoker have embraced cryptocurrency as a primary payment method, giving players the ability to deposit and withdraw using Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and other cryptocurrencies. Notably, CoinPoker has proven its commitment to transparency and security, releasing a proof of reserves (PoR) report showing that user deposits are fully covered 1:1 in cold wallets, visible on the blockchain. This adds an extra layer of confidence for players, ensuring that their funds are safe and that the platform operates with integrity. Additionally, CoinPoker has introduced its own native token, CHP, which offers perks like a 33% rakeback for holders, further incentivizing players to use cryptocurrency for transactions.
As the US online poker market continues to grow, players are demanding more robust security measures to protect their personal data and ensure fair play. Platforms like ACR Poker, PokerStars, and CoinPoker are leading the charge by integrating advanced features that protect players from cheating and fraud while also creating a safer, more transparent environment for the growing number of online poker enthusiasts.
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