888poker refunds players after tackling AI poker bots in 2023

888poker has recovered $362,893 to refund to 4,068 players who lost to players using AI poker bots or Real-Time Assistance (RTA) in 2023.

The company said that by using sophisticated and innovative methods of detection, it continued to make progress in tackling the issue of bots, which use software programming to create unfair advantages over real-life players.

During 2023, 888poker blocked 161 accounts using AI bots or RTA, taking the total amount refunded to players since 2021 to over $1.2 million.

This progress has been driven by 888poker’s increased investments in its detection capabilities, which forms part of its broader commitment to ensure a “safe, fair, and enjoyable” poker experience for all its players.

“Our continued progress in tackling bots has been driven not only by our increased investment in our detection capabilities but also through the continued support and cooperation of our players, who have an important role to play in helping provide us with vital information about players they think are using AI and RTA,” said 888poker head of poker offering Matan Krakow. “We also continue to consult with advisors who help us to analyse hand histories and detect non-human patterns.

“Based on feedback we are receiving, we believe that 888poker is at the very forefront of the industry when it comes to ensuring a clean and safe playing environment. It is an ongoing effort, and we will continue to do all we can to ensure we keep poker fun and fair, and listening to our players will continue to be a key factor to progress on this front.”