Strong online verification technology cracks down on underage gaming
24 February 2011 — As New Jersey prepares to become the first jurisdiction in the US to embrace online gaming for State residents, regulators, while highlighting the fiscal benefits of the new legislation, are emphasising the importance of implementing water-tight measures to prevent underage gambling. Fortunately the technology is already there.
Joe Brennan Jr, Chairman of the Interactive Media Entertainment and Gaming Association, iMEGA said, “New Jersey’s regulators are in a position to become the de facto primary regulators for iGaming in the US much in the same way Nevada regulators are in the casino based industry. New Jersey regulators are the toughest in the world. Those who can make it through the process will increase their value and the value of the industry itself.”
“Right now all the technology required is being used by European casino websites. Suppliers of age verification software will be able to open up US divisions and supply the US marketplace with proven technology.”
iGaming will be carefully monitored and regulated when it finally arrives in New Jersey and the State will be able to choose from any number of companies which are experts in extremely robust age verification solutions and which are already working within the strong existing regulatory framework approved by the British government. In fact, stringent controls mean that those below the legal age are currently far better protected from online gaming than from the land-based variety.
David Pope; Marketing Director of age verification solution leaders 192business.com, added, “New Jersey’s regulators will no doubt take great care in ensuring that their licensees implement robust age verification technologies. Both the regulators and their licensees will certainly be able to draw on expertise built up in jurisdictions in Europe and beyond. In terms of what that might mean to the operators who get licences, the good news is that yes, the technology does exist, it’s proven and tested and will help operators acquire age-verified legitimate players.”
The gaming modernisation legislation, known as S490, overwhelmingly passed New Jersey Assembly and Senate votes last month, and is now pending a signature from State Governor Chris Christie. The Governor’s decision is expected on March 3rd.
For an exclusive Q&A with iMEGA Chairman and other media enquiries contact:
Lizzie Phillips, Lyceum Media
Office: +44 (0) 208 123 7184
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BB/Email: lizzie@lyceummedia.com