Arjel Report Focuses on technology changes, particularly mobile

Friday March 15,2013 : ARJEL SPECIALISED COMMITTEE REPORTS ON CHALLENGES IN ACCESS CONTROL
 
Focuses on technology changes, particularly mobile
 
The French regulatory authority ARJEL-established specialised committee which was tasked to assess the effects of new online technologies within the regulatory gambit has forwarded its conclusions to Government.
 
The process saw the committee hear the views of specialists in a variety of subjects beginning with licensed operators and their representative associations.
 
Beyond the methodological issues, the special committee discussed changing patterns in player access to online games and betting.
 
Not surprisingly they arrived at the conclusion that taking bets through a landline and usual methods of payment has changed rapidly since the opening of the French market, evolving to mobile device access and through social networks with the exchange of virtual currency.
 
The committee believes the change in technology proves a serious threat to problem gambling controls, the protection of personal data, the security of payments and the types of games permitted.
 
Three main points were identified and separate proposals submitted on each.
 
1.   The adaptation of existing legal control over new forms of play and training on the development of virtual currency is deemed necessary.
 
2.   The establishment of a monitoring process within ARJEL concerning new technological modes of access to online games and betting with appropriate management guidelines set forth.
 
3.   Ongoing assessment of new and emerging technologies, and if necessary the revision of the composition of the existing Technical Requirements for Operators.