Uncategorized

Safer Gambling: UK Govt Shows its Cards on the Trajectory of Gambling Reform for Digital Age

Published

2 years ago

May 18, 2023

Reading Time: 5 minutes

The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has recently presented a white paper to Parliament, outlining the ill-equipped and outdated standards for protecting vulnerable players, and how they have failed to adapt to the digitalised age of gambling. There seems to be a disconnect between the technological advancements of gambling itself, and the technological advancements intended to protect its players.

According to the paper, there are an estimated 3,000,000 people in Great Britain who struggle with “problem gambling” – defined as “a degree which compromises, disrupts or damages family, personal or recreational pursuits”. The impact of problematic gambling can destroy lives and, given the impact of the current economic crisis on the lives of so many, it is imperative that the industry is supported to take on board the new approaches to gambling protocol as put forward by the white paper.

Despite the technological advancements within the industry making gambling accessible online, there is still a demand for land-based gambling enterprises such as casinos, betting shops and racecourses as they offer an authentic experience and atmosphere. Such a vivacious atmosphere cannot be emulated online which is indicative that land-based gambling sites will always be popular among players, whether regular or first-timers.

The white paper acknowledges that these are subject to outdated regulations, and looks to bring these in line with the proposed changes to the online gambling reformations. These intend to enable better monitoring of land-based gambling, in the same way that controls can be placed online to help protect players wherever they play.

From betting shops to pubs with arcade machines, discover more about what the recent white paper recommends for implementing Player Protection protocols in the business and providing responsible restrictions for customers.

Player Protection

Gambling operators are responsible for identifying customers who are susceptible to harmful play and must act accordingly. However, the operators have not had to date the adequate tools or assistance in performing checks on every person that enters their premises. Technology can be utilised to aid operators in this challenging but necessary task in protecting their players.

Biometric technology can help the operator in three core tasks

1) Age Estimation to prevent underage gambling

2) Player Tracking to limit daily spend or excessive losses

3) Identifying Self-Excluded Players

Underage Gambling

In the UK, most forms of gambling are illegal for those under 18s, and the government has the intention of strengthening this further by enacting legislation to ensure consistency. Gambling organisations are obliged to have stringent procedures in place to prevent underage gambling.

Recent figures released by Serve Legal reveal a vast rise in the number of bookies preventing young people from entering their shops. Instances of betting shops carrying out spot checks on underage players have increased from 67% to 91% over the last ten years. This is a promising statistic, and concrete evidence that the new infrastructure put in place to protect players is working.

“However, there are still too many instances of insufficient age verification in some venues, particularly those such as pubs, which can offer adult-only gaming machines but are not adult-only venues like many gambling premises.” – UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2023.

To further help reduce access to premises, ICU Pro can detect if an underage person is entering the premises and send an alert to the operator. A MyCheckr can be placed at the counter to aid the till operator in estimating the age of the customer and also reduce risk of abuse in asking for ID. Analytic and appropriate advertisements is also an attractive feature of the MyCheckr and can be used both as a return on investment and a valuable tool to extract the demographics of the customer base.

Biometric technology can be also used to automate age checks at a machine. ICU Lite, for example, is a compact age estimation device that can be seamlessly integrated into existing software and machines to help businesses comply with adherence to age restrictions. Through more stringent and consistent checks it can help prevent play from vulnerable persons who are underage from accessing the machine.

This new technology gives the operator 3 touchpoints where underage gambling can be prevented, 1) at entry to the premises 2) at the counter 3) at the gaming machine itself.

Player Tracking

Under the Gambling Act 2005, the Gambling Commission was established to regulate the industry and ensure responsible gambling among both individuals and businesses involved in gambling in Great Britain. In their review, the Department of Culture and Sport worked with the Gambling Commission to develop a two-form financial check preventative procedure.

The first will be background checks for moderate levels of spend, to check for indicators of financial vulnerability such as County Court Judgements, and should occur at £125 net loss within a month or £500 within a year. The next check is for higher levels of spending, suggestive of a harmful gambling binge or irrecoverable financial losses as a result of gambling, proposed at a threshold of £1000 net loss within 24 hours or £2000 within 90 days.

Biometric technology can again help operators in this vital task. An ICU Lite can be placed in every machine. Once a player accesses the machine, their age is initially checked. If the person is overage, then their face can be converted into a FaceID. This FaceID can be anonymously linked to the session and shared with all connected machines. Information such as daily spend and losses can then be linked to this FaceID and any necessary interventions can be easily alerted to the operator.

Additionally, the FaceID of a person can be used to set tailored restrictions and can be uploaded to the operators’ database with the agreed restrictions. For each session, the FaceID can ensure that the player will adhere to playing with the restrictions they have set. The FaceID can be automatically deleted after 24 hours and as such no data is stored permanently on the device.

Self-Exclusion

The Betting and Gaming Council enforces that anyone concerned about their gambling habits can exclude themselves from on-premises gambling facilities. Self-exclusion has the potential to help those suffering from gambling addictions to have more control over their lives and build a healthier relationship with gambling.

If a player has self-excluded, the device with facial recognition technology will store that player’s information as FaceID. If the player attempts to play again, the device will detect a match on the system for an attempt of play by a person who is self-excluding and alert the operator. This intervention can occur at multiple touchpoints, such as access to the premises, at the counter or at the machine itself.

Bolstering the Gambling Commission

The white paper also discusses the powers and resources given to the Gambling Commission. The paper acknowledges the difficult feat that the Commission is faced with; in an ever-evolving industry that has long been subject to outdated regulations, there is a lot of work to be done.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport envisions a future where the Commission has greater powers as regulators of the industry and supports the Commission in gaining cooperation from operators to share data to help identify non-compliance to licence conditions.

This is made even more prevalent as the Commission has recently issued its largest fine in history. A British online gambling company was recently fined £19.2m for widespread social responsibility and anti-money laundering failures, a record-breaking figure in the UK. The organisation had previously been fined £6.2m in 2018 for the same reasons, illustrating a repeatedly negligent pattern.

Protecting vulnerable players is a vital but complex task. Operators need the right support and tools to maintain and advance player protection as technology develops. Biometric technology will play a key role in implementing these key reforms designed to improve player protection.

The future for gambling certainly looks like one of change for the better. The restrictions are there not to impede the recreational joy of gambling, but to protect those most vulnerable to addiction. As stated by MP Lucy Frazer, who penned the ministerial foreword of the white paper, “prevention of harm will always be better than a cure, so we are determined to strengthen consumer protection and prevent exploitative practices”.

Uncategorized

Novabet96 Casino Enhances Player Experience with Data-Driven Insights and Responsible Gaming

Published

22 hours ago

October 29, 2025

Adrienn Sarkany

novabet96-casino-enhances-player-experience-with-data-driven-insights-and-responsible-gaming

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Novabet96 Casino has introduced a modernized player engagement framework that integrates responsible gaming practices, advanced analytics, and recognized slot content to improve the digital casino experience. The platform aims to offer an entertainment environment grounded in fairness, transparency, and user control—prioritizing both innovation and ethical standards in the online gaming sector.

A core part of this evolution is the expansion of its content portfolio, featuring premium titles like aristocrat pokies, a global favorite among slot enthusiasts. By incorporating Aristocrat Pokies online, Novabet96 Casino seamlessly connects nostalgic gameplay with cutting-edge design. Each game, optimized for engagement and fairness, enhances the platform’s reputation as a trusted environment where players experience both excitement and reliability.

As part of this initiative, Novabet96 has expanded its game portfolio to include a wide variety of popular slot titles, including games inspired by the iconic design style of Aristocrat machines. These games, known for their recognizable gameplay mechanics and visual themes, are offered in a format that emphasizes reliability and compliance. The inclusion of such content enhances the platform’s offering while maintaining legal and brand clarity.

“Engagement in online gaming goes beyond variety; it’s about relevance and responsible delivery,” said the company’s Head of Product. “Our platform uses aggregated player insights to recommend content that aligns with user preferences while preserving transparency and control. From classic slots to live dealer experiences, our technology helps shape a more informed and adaptable gaming environment.”

Central to the platform’s evolution is a data-informed approach to user interaction. Novabet96 uses behavioral trends—not individual tracking—to optimize content recommendations and user experience. These insights help streamline platform navigation, refine bonus structures, and support responsive design across mobile and desktop devices. By focusing on aggregated data patterns, Novabet96 balances personalization with privacy awareness and compliance.

Responsible gaming is a foundational element of Novabet96’s approach. The platform offers built-in player protection tools such as deposit limits, session reminders, and self-exclusion features—designed to empower users to manage their activity in a safe and informed manner. By integrating these controls early in the player journey, Novabet96 reinforces its commitment to ethical entertainment practices and long-term sustainability in the gaming industry.

Platform accessibility has also been improved through interface upgrades that reduce friction in the sign-up, deposit, and withdrawal processes. These refinements ensure users can navigate the site with ease while maintaining secure transactions and clear promotional terms. Every feature reflects a streamlined, responsible approach to digital engagement—eliminating ambiguity and reinforcing trust.

Novabet96’s transparent operations, responsible gaming features, and recognizable game titles support its goal of delivering a user-first experience without overstating outcomes. With an emphasis on integrity, the company continues to shape a standard of excellence in Southeast Asia’s competitive online casino market.

The post Novabet96 Casino Enhances Player Experience with Data-Driven Insights and Responsible Gaming appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Uncategorized

Top 5 Gaming Creators You Can’t Miss at Hyderabad Comic Con X DreamHack India

Published

22 hours ago

October 29, 2025

Adrienn Sarkany

top-5-gaming-creators-you-can’t-miss-at-hyderabad-comic-con-x-dreamhack-india

Reading Time: 2 minutes

The worlds of gaming and pop culture are set to collide in spectacular fashion as Hyderabad Comic Con X DreamHack India arrives at the HITEX Exhibition Centre from October 31 to November 2. For the second time, India’s biggest gaming festival and its most-loved pop culture celebration unite under one massive roof, promising three days of non-stop esports, cosplay, tech showcases, and unforgettable creator experiences.

And while there’ll be plenty to see across the halls, it’s the creators who’ll truly bring the heart and soul of the event to life. From esports legends to streaming icons, here are the top five creators you absolutely can’t miss at Hyderabad Comic Con X DreamHack India.

1. Scout – The Icon

Few names command the kind of respect and fandom that Tanmay “Scout” Singh does. A pioneer of India’s BGMI scene, Scout has become a symbol of passion, grit, and growth in Indian gaming. His journey from competitive esports to streaming superstardom has inspired millions, and meeting him in person is an experience every BGMI esports fan dreams of. Expect the crowds to roar, the cameras to flash, and the energy to skyrocket the moment he steps in.

2. Ghatak – The Mentor Who Built a Legacy

The strategist, the leader, the voice of experience, Abhijeet “Ghatak” Andhare has been at the core of India’s esports evolution. From commanding the battlefield to coaching some of the nation’s finest players, Ghatak’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. Catch him at DreamHack for insightful conversations, community moments, and a rare chance to hear stories from one of the sharpest minds in gaming.

3. Kaashvi – The Star of Style and Skill

Kaashvi Hiranandani continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a creator in Indian gaming. A fierce competitor and a charismatic personality, she’s built a community that celebrates both her skill and authenticity. Whether she’s streaming, chatting with fans, or taking part in DreamHack’s creator showcases, Kaashvi brings an energy that makes every moment feel personal and unforgettable.

4. Sensei – The Calm, Calculated Competitor

For fans of precision and control, Deepak “Sensei” Negi is a masterclass in focus. Known for his calculated gameplay and consistent performances, Sensei has earned a reputation as one of India’s most respected esports athletes. DreamHack gives fans the chance to see his composure up close, whether in a competitive arena or during meet-and-greets where he shares what it takes to compete at the highest level.

5. Spraygod – The People’s Champion

Harsh ‘SPRAYGOD’ Malik has carved out his own corner of the gaming community with charisma, humour, and pure entertainment. His gameplay keeps fans hooked, but it’s his infectious personality that turns casual followers into loyal supporters. DreamHack is the perfect place to catch him in his element, interacting, laughing, and celebrating the community that built him.

And That’s Just The Start –

Beyond the headline names, a stacked roster of creators is set to light up the DreamHack floor, including Vanshaj, Hastar, Abhinav, Tracegod, Mr Spike, Adit, Pardhan, and Amya. Each brings their own flair, community, and unmistakable energy, from competitive intensity to laugh-out-loud moments that fans can’t get enough of.

Whether you’re chasing a selfie, a quick chat, or that spontaneous viral moment, Hyderabad Comic Con X DreamHack India is where creators and fans come face to face, to share stories, celebrate the grind, and revel in the pure joy of gaming together.

The post Top 5 Gaming Creators You Can’t Miss at Hyderabad Comic Con X DreamHack India appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Uncategorized

Descend into the dark with Divina Commedia I Nove Cerchi

Published

2 days ago

October 28, 2025

Adrienn Sarkany

descend-into-the-dark-with-divina-commedia-i-nove-cerchi

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Play’n GO invites players to traverse a realm shaped by sin and consequence in Divina Commedia I Nove Cerchi, a slot rooted in Dante Alighieri’s legendary Divine Comedy.

The game opens in shadow. Dante stands at the edge of the inferno, blocked by monstrous figures – embodiments of human vice. But salvation appears in the form of Virgil, a poet from antiquity, sent to lead him through the Nine Circles of Hell. This slot doesn’t just reference a classic; it captures its essence. Players follow Dante deeper into the abyss, through torment and trial, with each spin echoing a step through divine judgement.

The narrative structure drives the game. Lucifer watches from above, Souls flicker across the reels, and Lanterns illuminate the path below. As Dante descends, so too do players – not aimlessly, but with a guide, a goal, and a chance to witness redemption emerge from ruin.

Visually, the slot is an infernal tapestry. From scorched gates to flickering flames and horned demons, every frame is steeped in lore. Rather than lean on familiar mechanics, the game’s features serve the story – Souls that evolve, Lanterns that unlock progress, and a climactic Hold & Win moment that pits players against the Prince of Darkness himself.

Those who’ve explored mythic worlds in titles like House of Doom or Gates of Troy will recognise the depth of storytelling here – though Divina Commedia I Nove Cerchi carves its own path through the fire.

Magnus Wallentin, Games Ambassador at Play’n GO, said: “We’ve taken one of literature’s most iconic texts and given it new life on the reels. This is a narrative-first experience where every symbol, scene and feature plays into the descent.”

Divina Commedia I Nove Cerchi offers more than gameplay – it offers a reckoning.

The post Descend into the dark with Divina Commedia I Nove Cerchi appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.