Security with online broadcasts

[mrdct]

The issue of security with online broadcasts came up at a recent meeting of the Australian Bridge Federation Tournament Committee, the minutes for which are located here. The relevant extract is quoted below:

 

Security with Online Broadcasts

The issue of security for play which is broadcast online in real time was discussed. It is now feasible for the public to have access to results, and hand records, via their computer, mobile phone or other electronic device. There is no implication that players would deliberately attempt to use unauthorised information to their advantage, but there is a definite possibility of accidental acquisition of this information.

Tournament Organisers are responsible for ensuring that there should be no contact between players and the public who may have access to results via online broadcasting. Specifically, opportunities arise for contact during visits to the toilet and during smoking breaks.

Tournament Organisers and Directors should ensure that players are advised not to use mobile phones or other electronic devices in the playing area, and not to discuss hands while in the toilet or smoking areas.

It was considered that the benefits of online scores and BBO broadcasting far outweighed possible breaches in security.

 

I am particularly encouraged by the last sentence which hasn't always been the view of Australian bridge administrators and, no doubt, in some other bridge jurisdictions also.

[fred]

That's great - thanks for reporting this, Dave.

 

Yay Australia :)

 

Fred Gitelman

Bridge Base Inc.

www.bridgebase.com