The world is increasingly using new technologies in the fight against gambling addiction

The proliferation of new technologies, such as mobile apps, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and Big Data, provide government institutions with tools to improve regulatory policy in the gambling market. They allow for more efficient monitoring of gambling organisers, protection of consumers, and quick adaptation to changes in the industry.

In particular, government regulatory institutions can use digital platforms to manage licensing and reporting, making the process more transparent. For example, blockchain can provide secure and immutable records of transactions, helping to combat money laundering. And by using AI, large amounts of data can be analysed to identify inconsistencies or suspicious activity, such as fraud or illegal transactions.

It is also worth remembering that modern technologies facilitate cooperation between different jurisdictions to combat illegal immigrants and fraudsters using the Internet, which only contribute to the growth of gambling addiction by encouraging those who use illegal services to play. For example, shared data exchange platforms can help regulators track illegal gamblers operating in multiple countries. This is a less obvious aspect of using modern IT solutions, but it is important for managing the global gambling market, especially given the growth of online platforms that are not limited to one country.

At the same time, modern technologies allow for the introduction of tools to ensure compliance with the principles of responsible gambling on the part of both organising companies and consumers of gambling services. The introduction of automatic deposit limits, facial recognition, online dispute resolution systems, etc. is important primarily for the protection of vulnerable groups, including people with gambling addiction.

Nowadays, different countries are introducing modern tools for the prevention of gambling addiction. Thus, this year, the Belgian authorities have simplified the process of self-exclusion (similar to the domestic self-restriction on gambling offered by licensed market organisersgambling). Now Belgians can do this through the app Itsme or an online form.

Currently, the Australian parliament is considering a bill that would force gambling organisers to inform users about their losses in real time.

On 28-29 January 2025, the European Union and the Council of Europe held a kick-off conference of the project Strengthening the Mental Health of Children and Youth by Eliminating the Risks of Online Gambling. The aim of this initiative is to support nine EU countries in developing effective policies and tools to minimise the negative impact of gambling. The project involves Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Poland, Portugal, and Slovenia. It will last until September 2026.

I would like to remind you that Ukraine has all the prerequisites for the implementation of a technologically advanced regulatory policy in the gambling market. Its leadership in IT and digital governance allows for the creation of innovative solutions, such as AI for monitoring, blockchain for transparency, and digital platforms for management. By adapting the experience of other countries, such as the UK, Sweden, Belgium, Australia, etc., Ukraine can not only increase the effectiveness of the fight against gambling addiction but also become an example for other countries. Success depends on a balanced combination of modern technologies, regulatory policy, civic education and consumer protection.