Gambling can be great fun, but it can quickly spiral into harm if warning signs go unnoticed. Early detection of risky gambling behaviors is essential for protecting players and preventing gambling harm. With the EU working toward standardized markers of harm, understanding these indicators has never been more important for creating safer gambling for all.

Key Markers of Harm

Markers of harm serve as warning signs that help identify potential gambling-related problems. Recognizing the signs can empower players to seek help when needed. It also enables operators to provide support proactively. Key behavioral indicators and transaction-based red flags include:

• Preoccupation with gambling
• Spending excessive time gambling
• Chasing losses in an attempt to recoup money
• Gambling during late hours
• Frequently seeking bonuses or free bets
• Making frequent deposits
• Significant increases in deposit sizes
• Using multiple payment methods to fund gambling

When observed together, these behavioral and transactional markers form patterns of risk. Identifying these patterns enables operators to assess a player’s risk level more effectively and take timely action to support individuals.

Technology & Tools for Detecting Risky Behavior

Technology plays an important role in identifying and addressing risky gambling. The DSM-5 criteria for addiction provide a foundation for identifying problematic behaviors. Gambling operators can create measurable metrics by mapping these criteria onto real-world data. This automates the identification of problem gambling behavior.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a significant tool for detecting harmful gambling. By analyzing large datasets, it can identify patterns of harm in real time. AI can detect risky gambling behaviors displayed by individual players. It can also predict potential issues based on a player’s actions. This technology could potentially revolutionize gambling harm prevention and player protection, enabling operators to intervene proactively.

A player’s problematic gambling behavior may be spread across multiple gambling sites. This can make it difficult for individual operators to identify when a player requires help. Therefore, real-time data collaboration across gambling operators could improve detection and protection. However, this proves challenging to implement. Without unified systems, at-risk players can easily bypass safeguards by switching operators or gambling across borders.

Expert Perspectives

The SBC Connect event brought together leading voices in responsible gambling to provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in detecting markers of harm.

Mark Griffiths, an expert in behavioral science, highlighted the markers of harm that could indicate problem gambling. Behaviors such as frequent and increasing deposits, using multiple payment methods, and late-night gambling could indicate problematic gambling. He also noted that responsible gambling tools have mixed effectiveness, but having a portfolio of tools would help.

Miguel Luís, Head of Compliance at LeBull.pt, highlighted the operational challenges of fragmented data. He stressed the importance of regulatory support in enabling seamless data sharing across operators. Jonathan Aiwazian, CEO of IDpair, noted the importance of transparency, stating that players need to trust how their data is used to ensure their safety.

EGBA representatives discussed the EU initiative to standardize nine markers of harm in gambling. They explained how Europe’s approach to regulating online gambling varies by country, leading to inconsistencies in consumer protection standards. They shared insights into efforts to move towards pan-European player protection measures.

Industry Response to Making Gambling Safer

The gambling industry has recognized the importance of acting on markers of harm and is implementing measures to address risky behavior. Intervention strategies focus on tailoring responses to individual players, such as setting loss-based limits instead of deposit limits to better align with financial risks. Personalized support tools also empower players to take control of their habits.

Effective communication with customers plays a central role in these efforts. Supportive, non-judgmental language helps players feel valued and respected, reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. Standardized training across the industry is also required to prepare customer support agents to identify potential gambling harm in their interactions with players and to be able to provide support.

Additionally, systems like GamProtect are gaining traction, allowing players to self-exclude across multiple operators. However, industry-wide collaboration is needed to maximize their effectiveness. Gambling companies can better protect players by integrating these tools into their operations.

Future Developments in Player Protection

Advancements in technology and regulatory efforts are shaping the future of player protection. The EU’s forthcoming standardization of markers of harm in gambling is expected to streamline approaches across member states. This unified framework will make it easier for operators and regulators to identify players at risk of gambling-related harm. A vote on the standardized markers is set for early next year.

AI will continue to evolve, improving the ability to detect harm patterns in real time. Predictive analytics may soon allow operators to anticipate risky behaviors before they occur, setting a new standard for proactive intervention.

The integration of universal self-exclusion systems, which allow players to block access to all gambling platforms, represents another promising development. While regulatory barriers remain, such systems could provide invaluable protection for at-risk individuals.

Cross-border collaboration will also play a key role. By addressing the challenges of data sharing and regulatory inconsistencies, operators can create a safer environment for players, no matter where they gamble.

Conclusion: Protecting Players Through Early Detection

Early detection of markers of harm is essential for protecting players and ensuring a sustainable gambling industry. Achieving this balance between entertainment and protection requires the following:

• Leveraging technology like AI for real-time monitoring and intervention.
• Collaborating across jurisdictions to eliminate gaps in player protection.
• Building trust through transparency in data collection and usage.

The gambling industry has a responsibility to act proactively, ensuring a safer environment for all players. By recognizing the importance of markers of harm and implementing advanced detection systems, operators can protect their customers.

For players, understanding how to spot problem gambling behavior and utilizing responsible gambling tools is a key step toward safer play. Resources such as GamCare and GambleAware provide valuable support for those seeking to manage their gambling habits.