The first stage of SOMS has been launched

The state agency PlayCity has launched a pilot mode of SOMS, a tool designed to fundamentally change the approach to regulating the gambling market. Instead of delayed reports, the government can now see every transaction in real time. The first two operators are already connected, and the system will soon cover the entire licensed segment.

SOMS functions like a digital blockchain for transactions: every bet, payout, or refund is recorded separately with a unique identifier. The ACID principle ensures that data cannot be altered or rewritten — it is like financial accounting, where every cent has its place and does not disappear. The tax authorities receive direct access to primary transactions for accurate calculation of GGR and taxes, eliminating any speculation about turnover.

Technologically, this is a successful solution. API integration automates data exchange, and a fail-safe storage mechanism ensures continuity. The second phase will take it to another level: monitoring parameters of gaming machines, random number generators, and alternative payment methods. The tender will begin soon, with funding secured by a Cabinet of Ministers resolution.

At the same time, efforts to combat the shadow economy continue: 3,500 illegal websites have been blocked, over 500 social media pages shut down, and there is systematic cooperation with Google, Meta, and TikTok. SOMS complements this pressure by giving the state a tool not only to see the legal market but also to understand its dynamics from anomalies in player behavior to the effectiveness of regulatory instruments.

The regulatory logic shows strong promise. The system transforms oversight from reactive to proactive: operators work under unified standards, taxes become predictable, and market participants gain protection from risks. For large-scale legalization of the online segment, it is essential to maintain this pace and to establish a clear regulatory framework alongside the technological one. Harmonizing the tax code and terminology with global standards will make the market not only controlled but also attractive for investment. SOMS is not just another reporting system—it is the foundation of the industry’s digital maturity, where transparency becomes a competitive advantage.