Cheating in over-the-board chess is not as widespread or sophisticated as often perceived. After Magnus Carlsen accused Hans Niemann in 2022, various theories emerged regarding how Niemann could have cheated without being caught.
A popular theory suggested that Niemann might have concealed a vibrating device within his body to indicate which moves to make.
In practice, cheating at high-level chess is relatively straightforward and typically involves players discreetly checking their phones.
Merenzon, instrumental in organizing the Clash of Blames event, which featured advanced anti-cheat measures, outlined several common cheating methods and how major chess tournaments ensure their integrity.
Hans Niemann and Magnus Carlsen faced off for the first time since the allegations in September.
“Our approach includes monitoring radio signals, audience signaling, theft prevention, and making sure smartphones are banned from the playing area,” Merenzon stated.
“Devices like smartphones possess greater computational power than humans, thus offering a player who has access to one significant advantages.”
The latest major cheating scandal to shake the chess community was the 2024 Chicago Open, where a competitor was found using a phone in his lap during play.
Previous cheating incidents, including those at the 2023 Romanian Championship and the 2019 case of Igors Rausis, involved players utilizing their phones in bathrooms during matches.
While there have been numerous claims of cheating in online chess recently, confirmed cases of in-person cheating remain quite low. Merenzon noted that his organization has not encountered any cheating incidents at World Chess tournaments.
Nonetheless, anti-cheating measures aim not only to apprehend cheaters.
“The primary objective is to ensure players feel secure while competing, as concerns can alter their performance and concentration,” Merenzon added.
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