Summary: A recent federal indictment has exposed a sophisticated gambling scheme involving hacked automated card shufflers and other advanced technologies. The scheme allegedly involved members of organized crime and several current and former NBA officials and players, who used high-tech devices to rig illegal poker games in New York City. This scandal highlights how modern technology can be exploited to manipulate games and underscores ongoing concerns about gambling integrity.
The High-Tech Poker Scam Uncovered
Since card games were invented, players have sought ways to gain an unfair advantage. Now, with the rise of automated card shufflers, a new method of cheating has emerged. According to a recent federal indictment, members of organized crime families hosted illegal poker games using hacked card shufflers to rig the outcomes and ensure big wins for those in on the scheme.
The indictment, initially reported by Wired, reveals that the shufflers involved were manipulated to deal favorable hands. While the indictment does not specify the brand, Wired demonstrated how the Deckmate 2 shuffler can be hacked. In these games, defendants allegedly used pre-rigged Deckmate 2 devices under their control rather than hacking machines owned by others via USB ports.
The Role of NBA Figures and Organized Crime
The case names members of the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese crime families, among others. These games were held in New York City and often featured wealthy participants enticed by the presence of well-known former professional athletes. Several NBA figures have been arrested in connection with the investigation, including Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and former Cleveland Cavaliers player and assistant coach Damon Jones. Additionally, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier was arrested in a related probe involving illegal sports betting and insider information, as reported by ESPN.
The Gadgets Behind the Rigged Games
Beyond the hacked shufflers, the indictment details an array of high-tech devices used to maintain the cheating advantage. These included electronic poker chip trays capable of secretly reading cards placed on the table, card analyzers disguised within decoy cell phones, and playing cards marked with hidden symbols only visible to individuals wearing specially designed contact lenses or sunglasses. This combination of technology makes the scheme feel more like a James Bond plot than a traditional gambling operation.
Legal Trouble and Law Enforcement Response
Not only were the games rigged, but they were also illegal under New York law, which prohibits gambling for money without proper licenses. Interestingly, many participants believed they were playing “straight” illegal games—unfair but not rigged. The indictment alleges that the defendants and their co-conspirators formed “Cheating Teams” that used wireless technologies to read cards and relay information, ensuring the victims lost money.
The organized crime families provided protection and support for these games, collecting debts and taking a cut of the illegal proceeds. The defendants reportedly made millions through this scheme.
Industry Reaction and Security Concerns
This is not the first time automated shufflers have been shown to be vulnerable. In 2023, security researchers at Blackhat demonstrated how devices like the Deckmate could be easily hacked. When contacted, Deckmate’s parent company, Light & Magic, stated: “We are aware of the news reports regarding the indictment against the named defendants, who are not affiliated with our company. We sell and lease our automatic card shufflers and other gaming products and services only to licensed casinos and other licensed gaming establishments. We will cooperate in any law enforcement investigation related to this indictment.”