Poker has a storied history of outwitting opponents through skill, strategy, and psychological acumen. However, there have always been individuals willing to test the boundaries of fairness, seeking to gain an edge by any means necessary. One such method that has plagued the poker world for decades is the use of invisible ink marked cards.

The Art of Cheating

Invisible ink marked cards are a form of cheating that involves modifying the appearance of playing cards, often in ways that are undetectable to the naked eye. Cheaters use a variety of techniques and substances to create these markings, such as specialized inks, luminous substances, or subtle scratching methods. The purpose is to gain an unfair advantage, which can be achieved by revealing the marks through specific devices or lighting conditions.

Types of Invisible Ink

Various types of invisible ink have been used in the practice of marking cards. Some common varieties include:

Luminous Ink: Luminous ink is only visible under ultraviolet (UV) or infrared light. Cheaters often wear contact lenses or glasses with UV or IR filters, allowing them to see the marks on the cards while remaining imperceptible to others at the table.

Juice Ink: Juice ink is a versatile substance that can be applied to cards in different ways, such as painting, writing, or injecting it into the cards. The marks made are typically visible under specific light conditions.

Daub Ink: Cheaters employ daub ink by discreetly applying it to the cards with their fingers or specialized tools. This ink can be colorless or have a faint tint, making it challenging for opponents to detect.