iPoker Network has suspended peer-to-peer money transfers

Wednesday May 1, 2013 : ONLINE POKER NETWORK HALTS PLAYER-TO-PLAYER TRANSFERS

No explanation for the ban, or whether it is permanent

Playtech's iPoker Network has suspended peer-to-peer money transfers, according to poker information media and information sites Wednesday.

Prior to the network-wide ban, iPoker players on the same skin and using the same currency were permitted to make player-to-player fund transfers from their accounts, a facility used by many more experienced players and those who stake them.

An un-named iPoker Network spokesperson, responding to industry speculation, reportedly told poker information site PokerFuse that the suspension was temporary but declined to give further details saying only that the step was taken “due to security concerns”.

The move triggered speculation Wednesday that the network may be preparing for its much anticipated software upgrade; it may be a precaution against money laundering; or it may be another move to discourage "sharks" as the network continues in its effort to create a mainly recreational player environment.