In poker, a "foul hand" refers to what?

[ProGambler]

In poker, a "foul hand" refers to a hand that is deemed invalid or disqualified due to a rule violation or an action that goes against the established regulations of the game. Here are some common situations that can result in a foul hand:

Misdeclaration of hand: If a player declares their hand incorrectly or falsely, their hand may be considered foul. For example, if a player claims to have a straight but actually has a different combination of cards, their hand will be disqualified.
 
 Insufficient number of cards: In games where players are dealt a specific number of cards, such as stud poker variants, if a player receives an incorrect number of cards or exposes one of their hole cards, their hand may be declared foul.

 Use of prohibited devices or assistance: If a player is found to be using prohibited devices, software, or receiving assistance from others during gameplay, their hand will be considered foul. This can include using electronic devices, colluding with other players, or receiving hidden information.

 

[CR7]

Collusion: Collusion occurs when two or more players work together to gain an unfair advantage over the other players at the table. If players are found to be colluding, their hand will be disqualified and they may face additional penalties.

Chip dumping: Chip dumping is the act of intentionally losing chips to a specific player or group of players. This is often done to help another player build a large stack, giving them an unfair advantage. If a player is caught chip dumping, their hand will be declared foul, and they may face penalties or be banned from the game.

Exposing cards: In some poker games, players are required to keep their hole cards hidden from other players. If a player exposes their hole cards before the appropriate time, their hand may be considered foul. This can happen accidentally or intentionally, and the severity of the penalty will depend on the specific rules of the game.

Unethical behavior: Any form of unethical behavior at the poker table can result in a foul hand. This can include acting out of turn, using offensive or abusive language, or engaging in any other behavior that disrupts the game or makes other players uncomfortable.

It's important to note that the specific rules regarding foul hands may vary between different poker variants and tournaments. It's always recommended to familiarize yourself with the rules of the specific game you're playing to avoid any unintentional fouls. Additionally, the decision to declare a hand foul is usually made by the dealer or tournament director, and their ruling is final.