Anti-Cheating
The role of the Arbiter
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
• In recent years there have been a number of high profile accusations of
using modern technology to cheat in games.
• This has prompted FIDE and the Association of Chess Professionals to
work together to combat the problem.
• Accusations of electronic cheating are increasing. Many of these are
unfounded.
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
Why take these measures?
• Important to provide assurances to opponents and sponsors.
• The actions that can be taken will depend on the nature of the event and the
premises being used.
• “11.3a During play players are forbidden to use any notes, sources of
information or advice, or analyse any game on another chessboard”
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
• 11.3a During play players are forbidden to use any notes, sources of
information or advice, or analyse any game on another chessboard
• 11.3.b During play, a player is forbidden to have a mobile phone and/or
other or other device capable of processing or transmitting chess analysis in
the playing venue. If it is evident that a player brought such a device into the
playing venue, he shall lose the game. The opponent shall win. The rules of a
competition may specify a different, less severe, penalty.
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
Some actions will depend on local laws and may be illegal in some countries.
• The arbiter may require the player to allow his clothes, bags or other items to
be inspected, in private. The arbiter or a person authorized by the arbiter
shall inspect the player and shall be of the same gender as the player. If a
player refuses to cooperate with these obligations, the arbiter shall take
measures in accordance with Article 12.9.
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
How players can cheat during the game
• Accepting information from another player or spectator
• Getting information from notes, books, phones, tablets, laptops etc
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
What precautions can be taken
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Monitor frequency of a player leaving playing area
Prevent conversations between player and others
Prevent electronic devices being used in playing area
Use proposed FIDE screening tool (analyses games in pgn format)
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
Devices which might be used
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Mobile phone jammer (illegal in some countries)
Hand held metallic security detectors
Walk through metal detectors
Automatic electro-magnetic screening devices for metallic/non-metallic
items
• Closed circuit television cameras
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
Screening Games for Precaution and Information
• FIDE Screening Tool – not a test but may provide info if accusation is made
• Full Statistical Test for players with regular suspicious results
• Arbiter’s increased (unobtrusive) watching of player
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
How to Deal with Suspicious Behaviour
• May need to follow player
• Record absences from playing hall (including move numbers)
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
Article 11.3 - Inspecting players possessions
• This has many problems
• Legality
• Timing
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
How to Deal with Accusations
In Tournament
• Complainant provides reasons for suspicion
• Arbiter investigates
• Report sent to FIDE
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Form to be completed
Person making complaint must be willing
to be identified and sign the complaint form.
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
How to Deal with Accusations
Post Tournament
• This should have substantial evidence – confession or statistical evidence
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
FIDE Arbiter Seminar
Anti-Cheating
How to Deal with False Accusations
• Use Article 12.2 – Penalties
• FIDE may suspend players for making unfounded accusations
FIDE Arbiter Seminar