NoiQ Suspended from iPoker

In one of the strangest moves by a poker network in recent memory, the iPoker network has suspended “skin” poker room NoiQ Poker for seven days, starting November 29, for violating iPoker rules.   

According to NoiQ’s affiliate manager, the problems stem from the behavior of some NoiQ affiliates, who get paid by NoiQ for every player they bring to the poker room (some are paid a percentage of revenue, some are paid a flat fee, depending on the arrangement).  There have been two primary transgressions.  First, iPoker does not allow affiliates to advertise NoiQ’s VIP program, and some have violated this rule.  Second, iPoker does not allow affiliates to use the word “rake” in their names if they are going to advertise for iPoker sites.  Some affiliates have done this, trying to send players to NoiQ.   

iPoker is holding NoiQ responsible for these actions and has shut down the site’s access to the network’s cash tables for seven days.  NoiQ players can still play against each other, just not against players from other iPoker sites.  Tournaments will not be affected.   

While it is good that iPoker is enforcing its rules, this actions seems to unfairly punish NoiQ’s customers, who did nothing wrong.  Sure, NoiQ will take a financial hit, but so may many players who rely on various VIP deals from NoiQ for a good portion of their income.   

Fortunately, it’s only a week, so hopefully most players can find another site at which to play for the time being.