Online poker cheating
Insider threats are generally regarded as lower risk, when determining the risk to a system and the data stored on it. Although insiders usually have complete access to the system, they are usually trusted agents. However, when that trust breaks it is in an extreme manner, particularly when there is money at stake.
Two incidents took place last year involving Ultimate Bet and Absolute Poker. First one or more trusted individuals used their access to create several fake usernames. Using theses fake user names and their access to software that allowed them to view the competing players hole cards, they made an undisclosed amount of money off online poker players.
Absolute Poker was fined $500,000 dollars for four breaches of the gaming commissions rules. Three of these breaches were for inaction or attempting to cover up this incident. On top of the fines, they will be subject to random audits for the next 24 months, at their expense.
During ongoing investigations a completely unrelated incident was turned up involving a more serious cheating scheme that had been operational for more than 21 months.
Absolute Poker has refunded losses and taken steps to prevent similar action in the future.