Lessons on Bypassing Withdrawal Limits: The Correct Withdrawal Method Learned from the Aram Oganyan Incident
player Aram Oganyan had his account frozen for attempting to bypass withdrawal limits, and the issue was resolved only after CEO intervention. This article reviews the incident and offers advice on how players can properly handle withdrawals to avoid triggering risk control.
In May 2026, well-known high-stakes player Aram Oganyan reminded all online poker players that even experienced players can make serious mistakes when it comes to withdrawals.
According to Oganyan's posts on X (Twitter), his account on ACR Poker was frozen after he attempted to withdraw approximately $500,000 in winnings through an unusual method. He was not cheating, but due to time constraints and a desire for fast processing, he chose an alternative route — which triggered the platform's risk control system and locked his account.
After the incident became public, WPN (Winning Poker Network) CEO Phil Nagy personally responded: "You could have sent an email. We're human. DM me." The issue was resolved in less than a day. Oganyan later confirmed he received all his funds and acknowledged that the mistake was his own decision.
However, Oganyan's case is an exception: his high profile earned him direct CEO attention. For an average player, triggering risk controls can lead to a lengthy appeals process or even frozen funds. Therefore, understanding the correct withdrawal procedures is crucial.
What Mistakes Did Oganyan Make?
- Failure to communicate in advance: Facing a large withdrawal, he did not proactively contact customer support to explain the situation; instead, he went straight to an unconventional method.
- Ignoring account rules: Most poker rooms have clear limits on single withdrawal amounts, frequency, and methods. Violating these rules directly triggers security reviews.
- Underestimating risk control systems: Online poker rooms' automated risk control systems are highly sensitive to abnormal behavior (e.g., splitting large withdrawals into small amounts, using unregistered payment methods).
How Can Players Withdraw Safely?
- Know the rules: Understand the platform's withdrawal limits when you register, including minimum/maximum amounts, fees, processing times, and payment methods.
- Notify in advance: If you plan to withdraw a large amount, contact customer support first to confirm a feasible plan. Platforms often offer VIP channels or batch processing.
- Stay consistent: Always use the same payment method you used for deposits (or another method permitted by the platform). Avoid sudden switches.
- Avoid edge cases: Do not try to bypass limits through multiple sub-accounts or third-party channels. This is highly likely to be deemed a violation.
Key Takeaways from the Oganyan Incident
- Even as a high-stakes player, not all platforms will respond as quickly as they did for Oganyan. Most ordinary players must follow standard procedures.
- Proactive communication is far more effective than damage control. When facing withdrawal issues, a polite email or customer support chat log is far more useful than a social media outcry afterward.
- Monthly withdrawal limits on frequency and amount are common. Planning ahead can prevent impulsive mistakes.
In summary, online poker rooms' withdrawal rules are not meant to inconvenience players but to comply with anti-money laundering regulations and ensure fund security. Understanding and following these rules will help you safely cash out after winning a big pot.