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AI is reshaping how the iGaming industry (online casinos and sports betting) safeguards players, with a new SOFTSWISS report showing operators moving beyond traditional tools like deposit limits and embracing data-driven systems that spot harmful behavior in real time.
Operators accelerate AI use for compliance and risk monitoring
The 2026 iGaming Trends report, based on a survey of 350 industry players, regulators and investors, finds that major operators are rapidly implementing artificial intelligence to strengthen player protection through real-time monitoring, data analytics and improved regulatory compliance.
The report notes that this shift has pushed long-standing responsible gambling practices — including self-exclusion and deposit caps — from competitive differentiators into baseline expectations across regulated markets.
“AI will be central to the future of responsible gambling,” said Emilia Kurzynska, deputy team lead of anti-fraud at SOFTSWISS, according to a post by Cyprus Mail. “It improves accuracy by identifying harmful patterns early and helps operators meet regulatory expectations. As the industry evolves, this data-driven approach is becoming essential for maintaining trust and ensuring sustainable growth.”
Olga Levshina, chief commercial officer at BGaming, echoed the theme of shared responsibility, saying,
“We focus on player protection through reality checks, stake limits and independent RNG testing, while behavior monitoring helps address fraud risks. Operating under international and local licenses ensures compliance with the highest standards.”
How AI helps spot problem gambling signs faster
AI is streamlining player protection by identifying signs of problem gambling that human oversight may miss, such as sudden shifts in spending or erratic play patterns. It also supports faster intervention, which is critical because problem gambling often escalates when early warning signs go unnoticed.
The technology enables more personalized protection strategies by tailoring interventions to individual behavior rather than applying uniform limits. This approach improves both player safety and trust.
Real-time monitoring, automated reporting and algorithmic oversight also generate measurable data, helping operators and regulators evaluate the effectiveness of responsible gambling programs. As a result, the focus is shifting from whether to adopt AI to how to deploy it ethically, transparently and at scale.
Fifty-six percent of survey respondents rated AI’s importance to the iGaming industry as a 9 or 10 on a 10-point scale. Only 11% rated it 6 or below, down from 15% previously — a signal of growing support for AI-driven safeguards.
Mindway AI is cited as an example of innovation in the field. The company’s Gamalyze and GameScanner tools combine AI with cognitive science to help identify harmful behavior. Gamalyze’s effectiveness has led to its recent adoption by the Hellenic Gaming Commission for official player self-assessment.
Raising standards through collaboration and evidence-based messaging
Responsible gambling remains a shared responsibility across the online casino ecosystem, and the report notes growing cooperation among operators, developers and regulators to strengthen player protection. New standards, coordinated prevention efforts and government-led initiatives are helping build a more consistent safety framework across markets. But experts warn that improved tools alone are not enough — the way responsible gambling is communicated also plays a critical role.
Research from GambleAware shows that responsible gambling messaging can sometimes backfire. While designed to prevent harm, certain ads were found to increase trust and confidence among viewers, which, for some, triggered a stronger urge to gamble. Sixty-three percent of respondents reported this effect, and 25% said they felt a strong immediate urge to gamble after viewing the ads.
The findings highlight the need for clearer, evidence-based messaging that genuinely supports at-risk players. The report calls for measurable campaign goals and regular audits by independent agencies to ensure communications reinforce, rather than undermine, responsible gambling efforts.
How AI is shifting iGaming from reaction to prevention
Responsible gambling strategies are becoming more proactive thanks to advances in AI and behavioral science. Measurable outcomes are replacing broad commitments, and responsible gambling is evolving from a regulatory obligation into a data-driven effort to deliver safer user experiences.
“Responsible gambling is no longer just about compliance — it’s about measurable outcomes,” Kurzynska said.
“Operators are moving toward real-time behavioral monitoring, automated reporting and transparent data frameworks. These tools allow regulators, operators and players to speak the same evidence-based language.”
“As AI becomes embedded across compliance, risk management and user experience,” she continued, “the focus is shifting from reacting to problems to preventing them entirely. This level of accountability is where the industry is heading.”
