Connect with us
European Gaming Congress 2024

Industry News

The clock is ticking for land-based lottery operators

Published

on

Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

As consumer behaviour changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic, time is running out for land-based lottery operators who are yet to adapt.

The landscape of the lottery industry is set to undergo a permanent shift as more and more operators look to move online before consumer behaviours are forced to adapt to new circumstances.

Lockdown has spelled disaster for all non-essential retail businesses, leaving land-based operators without a vendor to sell their tickets. This has hit developing nations particularly hard. In Costa Rica, Lottery draws were suspended on 24 March, with estimated losses around the $8.5million to date. For now, the government has announced it will financially support around 2,000 vendors, with up to $342,000 per month available for each entity. However, this scheme will only run until June.

Advertisement
Stake.com

By then, vendors will have been closed for 68 days, and may still have to close for much longer. Many expect the lockdown to last at least six months, which could see land-based lottery operators closed for well over 150 days. But consumer behaviours, if forced to change, will adapt to new habits in 60 to 90 days. While retail vendors are closed, online third party operators remain open for business, and are already beginning to win the loyalty of land-based players that have been forced to move online.

Ade Repcenko, CEO of lottery solutions provider Spinola Gaming, confirmed there is no way for pen and paper lottery to compete under the current circumstances. He believes solely land-based operators should move their brand online as soon as possible, or risk losing customers forever.

“Our industry is undergoing a change that has been long overdue. The transition to online was bound to happen eventually in order to sustain business long-term, but it is now happening by force,” stated Repcenko. “It takes 60 to 90 days to change a habit, and after that there is no going back. This process is going to take longer than 60 to 90 days, so customers’ habits are most certainly going to change, especially when they realise that it’s a better way of doing things regardless of the current pandemic. Online will become the new normal for the majority of lottery players.”

Online businesses have indeed benefitted from the global pandemic so far, both in lottery and across most other industries. Any operator that was online before the widespread lockdowns began will have seen an upturn, with many who lost out now scrambling to put their brand online. As a market leader in lottery solutions, Spinola Gaming has seen this happen first-hand. Repcenko expects the shift to continue as there remains to be no end in sight to the current situation, urging operators who have not yet made the decision to do so before it’s too late.

“Retail and land-based lottery operators need to embrace the shift to online and be a part of this global digital movement in order to continue to thrive in the lottery sector for years to come,” he said. “We can help land-based companies intercept the player’s online journey. Our solutions allow operators to move online in a matter of days to reach existing and new players in the comfort of their homes.”

Advertisement
Stake.com

Repcenko added that Spinola Gaming’s integrated solution addresses both the short-term problem caused by Covid-19, and the long-term problem of combining online with retail once vendors reopen.

“Our holistic solution caters for both retail and online operations from one interface,” he concluded. “It gets operators online quickly in the short-term, and in the long-term, after the global pandemic finally comes to an end, it allows them to easily manage a retail and online lottery solution from one solution.”

Spinola Gaming is a leading global Lottery software provider offering complete end-to-end Lottery solutions for government and state-run lotteries, land based and online gaming operators, and online B2B platform providers. The company builds powerful custom-made solutions across all markets, at any scale.

Spinola Gaming products include global lotteries, custom and bespoke lotteries, bundle and syndicate lotteries, scratch cards, instant games and instant lotteries. The company also offers jackpot coverage and insurance for a fully managed, risk-free solution.

With the most competitive pricing model on the market, Spinola Gaming guarantee the highest jackpots at the lowest cost per entry, giving operators the highest margins and revenue streams.

Advertisement
Stake.com
Continue Reading
Advertisement

Industry News

An Intro to iGaming Fraud 101

Published

on

an-intro-to-igaming-fraud-101
Reading Time: 4 minutes

 

By Tamas Kadar, CEO and Co-founder, SEON

The shift to digital has fundamentally transformed the gambling world, welcoming us to the exciting era of iGaming. But, as much as we love the ease and reach of online platforms, they come with their own set of headaches, especially when it comes to keeping things safe from the prying eyes of fraudsters and bad actors.

In this article, we take a closer look at the risks lurking in the iGaming industry to see how they could mess with businesses, and chat about why end-to-end fraud prevention is like having a good bouncer at the door of your online casino.

Advertisement
Stake.com

 

Dealing with iGaming Fraud

iGaming has got a lot going for it. Unfortunately, It’s also a magnet for some unhelpful fraudsters. The front line in this ongoing battle? It’s all about getting to know your customers (KYC) and keeping money laundering (AML) at bay with some solid protocols. These aren’t just red tape; they’re your tickets to staying on the right side of the law, keeping your players safe, and holding onto your hard-earned reputation in an industry that’s often scrutinized.

Ultimately, if you think skimping on these regulations is a minor risk, think again. Getting lax here can hit iGaming operators with everything from eye-watering fines and the nightmare of losing licenses to taking a serious hit on their street cred. And let’s not forget the players – pile on too much paperwork, and they’ll head for the hills, leading to a revolving door of new users that never stick around.

 

Advertisement
Stake.com

Common Types of iGaming Fraud

Like many problems, getting on top of iGaming fraud first necessitates an understanding of the problem and its main forms. Below is a list of some of the main types of activities that we’re seeing affect those in the sector:

  • Bonus Abuse: The exploitation of promotional offers through the creation of multiple fake accounts is a prevalent issue. While bonuses are effective in attracting new players, without proper restrictions, they can result in significant financial losses.
  • Affiliate Fraud: Unethical third parties may employ deceptive methods, such as using stolen data or creating misleading domains, to siphon off profits illegitimately.
  • Gnoming: A concept that involves the manipulation of games or promotions using multiple accounts controlled by a single individual.
  • Chip Dumping: A tactic used in online poker where players collude to transfer funds under the guise of legitimate gameplay.

If not prevented, fraud won’t only impact the financial bottom line. It also has the potential to erode trust and could lead to regulatory scrutiny. Thankfully, the good news is that there are now highly effective fraud prevention solutions on offer to prevent them. As such, the task for iGaming operators is to ensure these solutions are onboarded and operational as quickly as possible.

 

Preventing iGaming Fraud and Staying Ahead of Compliance Requirements

In response to these challenges, end-to-end fraud prevention companies can offer a comprehensive suite of anti-fraud solutions tailored to the unique needs of the iGaming sector. Multi-faceted in their design, these solutions can help to reduce instances of fraud across the sector. More importantly, these solutions are allowing iGaming companies to find that sweet spot between following the rules and retaining slick consumer experiences.

Advertisement
Stake.com

While they don’t all work the same, there are a few key things to look out for when evaluating the effectiveness of modern fraud prevention solutions:

  • AML Screening: Utilizing an advanced API, some modern fraud prevention solutions can facilitate both manual and automated screenings against global watchlists, enhancing regulatory compliance and risk management.
  • Pre-KYC Checks: It’s important to find technologies that enable the early detection of potential fraudsters through device fingerprinting, IP analysis, and digital footprinting, thereby minimizing user friction and optimizing the KYC process.
  • Real-time Transaction Monitoring: Fraud can happen in a split second, so having real-time transaction monitoring is a huge benefit for iGaming businesses. By flagging suspicious transactions and behaviour in real-time, solutions of this nature can ensure prompt action to mitigate risks.
  • Customizable Rules for iGaming: Everyone knows their own risk tolerances. A versatile rule engine can allow operators to implement both predefined and custom rules based on their specific business insights and observed user behaviour.
  • Machine Learning: Leveraging AI-driven machine learning, solutions like SEON continuously refine and suggest new rules, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of fraud prevention measures over time.

 

 Fighting Fraud Earlier and More Effectively

When it comes to fortifying iGaming platforms against fraud, embracing comprehensive fraud prevention solutions is a game-changer for operators. These solutions play a pivotal role in not just warding off prevalent fraud risks but also in bolstering compliance efforts. Moving forward, this enhanced focus on security will enable the iGaming sector to craft a safer and more reliable space for users, significantly boosting trust and satisfaction.

With the industry on an exciting growth trajectory, leveraging advanced fraud prevention tactics is crucial for its enduring success and integrity. Incorporating technologies like SEON, which specialize in identifying and mitigating fraud early in the customer journey, can make a world of difference. Early detection is key to preventing fraudsters from causing damage, enabling companies to intercept suspicious activities before they escalate.

Ultimately, this proactive approach not only safeguards the platform and its users but also streamlines compliance processes, reducing the friction and inefficiencies that can arise from dealing with fraud incidents after they’ve occurred. In an industry where reputation and user confidence are paramount, the ability to pre-empt and neutralize threats through such advanced solutions is invaluable.

Advertisement
Stake.com

For more information about SEON, please visit: https://seon.io/

The post An Intro to iGaming Fraud 101 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Industry News

CT Interactive Appoints Monika Zlateva as Chief Commercial Officer

Published

on

ct-interactive-appoints-monika-zlateva-as-chief-commercial-officer
Reading Time: < 1 minute

 

CT Interactive has appointed Monika Zlateva as its Chief Commercial Officer (CCO).

Equipped with a strong background in business development and strategic marketing, Monika has a proven track record of driving growth and managing high-level business communications across various regions, including EMEA and Greece.

Throughout her career, Monika has showcased leadership by taking ownership of business strategy, sales initiatives and marketing campaigns. Her expertise lies in new business development, customer acquisition and retention, aligning these strategies with company values and objectives.

Advertisement
Stake.com

Monika has been instrumental in successful business strategies and upselling initiatives within the iGaming industry. Her strategic vision has consistently led to remarkable increases in sales and market presence in her previous roles. She has focused on enhancing the understanding of customer needs, expectations, and demands in both B2B and B2C environments through market research, successfully identifying insights that drive business behaviour and opportunities.

Possessing relevant international experience, including leadership roles such as Business Development Partner, Business Development Director and Regional Director of Business Development, Monika has developed and executed innovative strategies that have led to successful product launches and relaunches. Her ability to manage complex business communications and PR strategies further enhances her capabilities.

Monika holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Business Administration and Management from the University of National and World Economics in Sofia, Bulgaria. She also has a Master’s degree in Language Interpretation and Translation and a Bachelor’s degree in Modern Greek Language and Literature from Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski.

The post CT Interactive Appoints Monika Zlateva as Chief Commercial Officer appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Advertisement
Stake.com
Continue Reading

Industry News

Navajo Gaming Appoints John James as Chief Executive Officer

Published

on

navajo-gaming-appoints-john-james-as-chief-executive-officer

 

Navajo Gaming has appointed John James as its Chief Executive Officer.

John James brings more than two decades of professional gaming and hospitality experience to Navajo Gaming. He previously served as CEO of River Rock Entertainment Authority in Geyserville California. There he exemplified his strong leadership skills by identifying and implementing innovative operational improvements to grow revenue while improving morale through thoughtful strategic direction and mentoring.

Prior to that, he led numerous tribal casinos including serving as CEO of Muckleshoot Casino Resort in Washington, CEO of Soboba Casino Resort in California, COO of Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in California, and CEO of Gila River Gaming Enterprises in Arizona. Additionally, he has served in leadership positions for Seminole Gaming Inc., Pechanga Resort and Casino, and various successful Station Casino properties.

As CEO of Navajo Gaming, John James will oversee and manage Navajo Gaming properties in New Mexico and Arizona, as well as ensure that Navajo Gaming policies and objectives are met. His three main objectives are to strengthen Navajo Gaming and the hospitality economy, return revenue to the Navajo Nation, and provide additional jobs to members of the Navajo Nation.

Advertisement
Stake.com

“Navajo Gaming has grown to a multi-million-dollar enterprise over the past 15 years. John James brings extensive gaming and management experience and leadership qualities to lead Navajo Gaming. James has been widely recognized as the industry’s ‘best of the best’ for his exceptional strategic and positive impact. He will stimulate continued growth and success for Navajo Gaming as we remain focused on job creation and enhancing the Navajo economy,” Quincy Natay, Chairman of the Navajo Gaming Board of Directors, said.

“I am honored to serve Navajo Gaming’s team and guests under the stewardship of the board and alongside such a strong management team. Our industry is transforming rapidly and there is tremendous opportunity for Navajo Gaming to capitalize on opportunities, elevate guest experiences and solidify our reputation as exceptional destinations where memories are made,” John James said.

Continue Reading

Trending