Should players banned for cheating be allowed back into poker?

GGPoker launches the Olive Branch initiative, offering previously banned players for fraud a chance to return. We discuss the pros and cons of this decision.

GGPoker launches the Olive Branch Initiative: should players banned for cheating be allowed back? GGPoker opens its doors to some banned players The world’s largest online poker room, GGPoker, recently announced the launch of the Olive Branch Initiative, which aims to give certain previously banned players a chance to return to the tables. This decision is unprecedented in the industry: usually, players caught breaking the rules lose access to poker platforms forever, with almost no chance for rehabilitation. As part of the initiative, GGPoker invited all banned players to send a letter explaining why they deserve a second chance by October 1. Each case will be reviewed individually, and decisions on applications are promised by November 1. The official announcement does not specify how many accounts may be reinstated or whether applications involving serious violations such as collusion or the use of real-time assistance (RTA) will be considered. Poker community reaction: criticism and concerns The news that banned players might be allowed back sparked a strong reaction among professionals. One of the most vocal critics is Matt Berkey, a well-known poker pro. On Twitter, he spoke out sharply against GGPoker’s initiative, noting that if this is not just about minor infractions, it is “one of the biggest betrayals of regulars and recreational players.” Berkey added that giving a second chance to those caught using RTA, multi-accounting, or bots is a crime in itself. In his view, such actions undermine trust in the integrity of the game and the safety of players’ funds. Mike Holtz’s position and the multi-accounting discussion Mike Holtz, a well-known online player from Nevada and two-time WSOP Online Player of the Year, also shared his opinion. He emphasized that one of the main problems is multi-accounting, when a player creates several accounts and plays them at the same table, which is strictly prohibited on any poker platform. Holtz noted that some offenders had up to four accounts at the same table in tournaments, giving them a huge advantage and harming fair competition. He also expressed the view that in some cases, such as when a player was banned for using a VPN many years ago, leniency could be shown. However, when it comes to serious violations like RTA or collusion, Holtz is adamant. Notable cases: Justin Bonomo, Ali Imsirovic, and Jake Schindler There have been several high-profile scandals in online poker history involving multi-accounting and cheating. For example, Justin Bonomo, one of the most successful players ever, admitted to multi-accounting back in 2008 and faced harsh criticism. Despite this, he managed to restore his reputation and later won over $65 million in live tournaments, making him a candidate for the Poker Hall of Fame. Ali Imsirovic, the 2021 GPI Player of the Year, was banned from several live series. During the 2023 WSOP, he admitted to multi-accounting but denied other cheating allegations. Jake Schindler, another high roller, was also accused of cheating, but has not commented publicly and has not appeared at live tournaments for almost two years. It is unknown whether Imsirovic has applied for reinstatement on GGPoker or if his request will be granted. Debate on rehabilitation: arguments for and against GGPoker’s decision has sparked debate not only among professionals but also in the wider poker community. Critics fear that allowing players caught in serious violations to return could undermine trust in the platform and set a dangerous precedent. On the other hand, some believe that players who sincerely regret their actions deserve a second chance, especially if the infractions were minor or happened many years ago. The question of what is acceptable and the criteria for rehabilitation remains open, as GGPoker has not disclosed the details of the selection process or specified which violations may be forgiven. Table: Notable violations among professionals Justin Bonomo : admitted to multi-accounting (2008), later won $65 million in live tournaments Ali Imsirovic : admitted to multi-accounting (WSOP 2023), banned from several series, denies other allegations Jake Schindler : accused of cheating, has not commented publicly, has not played live tournaments for almost two years What does this mean for PPPoker club players? For PPPoker club members, this news is a reminder of the importance of fair play and transparency on the platform. Even the world’s largest rooms are forced to balance security with giving players a chance to make amends, but any form of cheating inevitably leads to harsh sanctions and loss of trust. PPPoker club players should remember: even if there is a chance for rehabilitation somewhere, a history of violations can negatively affect your reputation and limit access to the best games and tournaments. In the long run, fair play and following the rules is the only path to stable success and respect in the community. Moreover, the GGPoker experience shows that the platform always monitors violations and can reconsider decisions even years later. That’s why it’s important not only to follow the rules but also to build your reputation on honesty and openness—this is the best asset for any player in PPPoker clubs.