Partypoker is taking the fight to its rivals by knocking out 42 poker bots during its latest assault on illegal gaming activity.
Part of its new series of security updates, a recently released report shows that $46,805 has been retrieved from fraudulent accounts.
Although May’s cull was 55.3 percent down on the monthly record of 90 bot closures, it’s still considered a win for players.
Partypoker Serious About Banning Poker Bots
Since creating its Poker Fraud Team, Partypoker has shut down more than 300 accounts running illegal software.
As well as returning over $750,000 to affected players since the start of 2019, the online operator is vying to make its platform the safest in the industry.
Alongside its commitment to tackling poker bots, Partypoker is adjusting its alias policy. Revealed at the start of June, the new rules will force players to change their screen names following a June 17 software update.
Those that do it on the changeover day will get access to a series of promotions worth a combined $500,000. However, after the news broke, some players were quick to air their discontent.
Although the alias change feeds into a ban on heads-up display (HUD) software, some feel it will hurt their bottom-line. By forcing everyone to change their screen name, regulars will lose the notes they’ve built up over the last few years.
Despite the consternation, Partypoker managing director Tom Waters said it would provide a “fresh start” for everyone.
Adding to this, Partypoker partner Rob Yong appeared on the Jeff Gross podcast to explain the site’s future plans. Stating that the goal is to create a more welcoming, less predatory environment, Yong said that high stakes players will have to use their real names.
Although the measure will only be in force at $10/$25 cash games and up, the idea is to make things more transparent.
Making Poker Fun for Everyone
By removing the ability to use tracking software, disclosing player identities and battling poker bots, Partypoker is vying to become the “player friendly” platform.
While this strategy may cause issues with some, it’s one that ties in with the direction online poker is moving. Attracting more casual players has been the goal for many operators over the last five years.
Partypoker’s aims are no different but it’s trying to distinguish itself from the rest by also focusing on seasoned grinders.
Through innovations such as Millions Online, the site is aiming to appeal to both ends of the spectrum. In doing so, the goal is to become the leading brand in online poker.
At this stage, PokerStars still has a firm grip over the industry. However, as more poker bots are taken offline and updates make the platform more transparent, Partypoker is hoping to loosen that grip as we head towards 2020.
