未分类

The report emphasized that promotion abuse stood out as the predominant form of fraud observed within the gambling sector

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Digital fraud continues to plague the online gambling industry, with a recent report from TransUnion shedding light on the alarming increase in fraudulent activities targeting gambling sites. According to the study, over 10% of online gambling transactions in the United States were suspected to be fraudulent in 2023, marking a significant rise from previous years.

TransUnion Report Exposes Rampant Promotion Abuse

The report highlighted promotion abuse as the most common type of fraud within the gambling sector, indicating a trend where fraudsters exploit promotional offers and bonuses offered by online casinos and sports betting platforms.

Steve Yin, senior vice president and global head of fraud solutions at TransUnion, emphasized the shift in tactics among fraudsters, noting that instead of compromising existing accounts, they are now creating new accounts using synthetic identities. Synthetic identities, often assembled from data obtained through multiple data breaches, have become a lucrative tool for fraudsters, contributing to the surge in fraudulent activities.

The study also underscored the role of data breaches in fueling digital fraud, with the number of data breaches in the US increasing by 157% from 2020 to 2023. This escalation in data breaches has facilitated the creation of fraudulent accounts and synthetic identities, posing a significant threat to the integrity of online transactions.

On a global scale, the retail sector surpassed gaming, including online gambling and poker, in experiencing the highest suspected digital fraud rate in 2023, reaching 8.7%, marking a 21% year-over-year increase. Furthermore, the telecommunications industry witnessed a substantial 111% year-over-year surge in suspected digital fraud rate, rising to 4.5%.

Economic Shifts Alter Gambling Landscape

Furthermore, TransUnion’s research highlighted the impact of economic conditions on gambling behavior. Despite the overall resilience of the US economy, factors such as declining consumer liquidity and low consumer confidence have dampened gambling activity as per another TransUnion report released in January.

In Q4 2023, decreased consumer liquidity led to a 10% decline in overall betting activity, with millennials being the exception, as 77% reported better-than-planned household finances. TransUnion’s report revealed that betting behavior is closely linked to available cash, with high-value bettors significantly influencing the market.

While land-based channels saw higher participation rates, online platforms attracted more high-value bettors, particularly those depositing over $500 monthly. Despite a decrease in overall participation, strategies focusing on expanding across channels proved successful.

TransUnion highlighted that understanding the financial signals distinguishing resilient from distressed players is crucial for operators aiming to attract high-value bettors.

-Mk Ssports

The decision could have wide-reaching implications, especially in gambling hubs like Atlantic City, where the gaming sector constitutes a substantial portion of the economy

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

A New Jersey Appellate Court panel recently heard arguments in two cases concerning amendments to the state governing how much money casinos pay in lieu of property taxes. The cases, brought by Atlantic County and the nonprofit Liberty and Prosperity, revolve around changes made in 2021 that excluded internet gaming and online sports betting revenues from the calculations of casino payments.

The State Argues Casinos Require Special Treatment

In Superior Court in 2022, Atlantic County and Liberty and Prosperity prevailed in their lawsuits, contending that the amendments violated a 2018 consent agreement and the state Constitution. They argued that the changes resulted in a loss of approximately $5 million per year for county taxpayers, benefiting an industry detrimental to public health.

Despite the initial victory, the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office argued in favor of the amendments, emphasizing the need for changes to ensure a predictable revenue stream for casino taxes and to prevent potentially ruinous tax hikes. During the appellate court hearing, Tim Sheehan, representing the state, argued that the amendments were necessary to safeguard the financial stability of casinos and prevent closures.

The Legislature acted to exclude internet gaming and (online) sports gaming revenues … to ensure casino taxes continued in a predictable revenue stream.

Tim Sheehan, New Jersey Attorney General’s Office representative

Sheehan highlighted the rationale behind the amendments, citing concerns that a significant portion of internet gaming and online sports betting revenues went to third parties rather than the casinos themselves. He added the amendments were vital to avoid potential tax hikes, which could be disastrous for the broader sector and damage a leading contributor to the local economy.

The Amendments May Just Spread the Financial Burden

Despite the state’s concerns, Appellate Judge Francis J. Vernoia questioned whether the amendments effectively rescued casinos from ill-conceived business deals at the expense of other property owners. Seth Grossman of Liberty & Prosperity echoed this sentiment, arguing that the burden had unfairly shifted from casinos to non-casino property owners, adding the gambling sector did not need such a safety net.

So the amendment was to make sure the casinos kept more of the money? Aren’t we just rescuing a bad business deal?

Appellate Judge Francis J. Vernoia

The crux of the dispute revolves around whether the amendments violated the terms of the 2018 consent agreement and encroached upon judicial authority. While Sheehan contended that the Legislature had the authority to change laws at any time, Ronald Riccio, representing Atlantic County, argued that such changes cannot alter court orders.

The outcome of the appellate court’s decision is eagerly awaited, with Riccio acknowledging the unpredictability of judicial rulings based on judges’ questions during the hearing. The court should settle on a decision in the coming weeks, potentially impacting the tax obligations of New Jersey casinos and other property owners.

-Mk Ssports

The mind-blowing €2.7 million jackpot was won by a Unibet customer who played Print Studios\’ Pine of Plinko Dream Drop

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

The leading supplier of unique casino games and iGaming aggregator, Relax Gaming, announced that it made another lucky only player millionaire thanks to a Dream Drop Jackpot win. The company confirmed Friday that a player at Unibet casino secured the latest Dream Drop Jackpot, pocketing a whopping €2.7 million ($2.9 million) prize.

The latest mouth-watering prize represents the second grand prize from Dream Drop Jackpot for the year so far and fourteenth overall. The monumental win comes after back in January, a lucky player hit the thirteenth Mega Jackpot drop and the first for 2024.

To secure the grand prize, the customer played Print Studios’ Pine of Plinko Dream Drop via Unibet. Ultimately, the lucky online gambler was able to hit the grand prize after placing a tiny €3.50 bet. Besides Dream Drop, Pine of Plinko Dream Drop offers other engaging features, including multipliers, feature bet and Pinko Bonus, among other functions.

David Robertson, the director of casino and gaming at Kindred, Unibet’s parent company, was excited about the latest win. “The Dream Drop Jackpot has quickly become known for allowing players to win incredible jackpots, adding a layer of excitement to the gameplay experience, we are delighted to see the latest winner play at our casino,” he said. Finally, Robertson congratulated the lucky player.

Relax Gaming Enjoys a Wonderful Start of the Year

Filip Wargeus, Print Studios’ CCO, was also excited about the recent jackpot win. He said that the company strives to offer engaging and rewarding experiences to its players. This is why, Wargeus said, Print Studios decided to add the popular Dream Drop Jackpot feature into Pine of Plinko. In conclusion, he pointed out: “We have seen great levels of engagement with the game and we are thrilled to have seen a millionaire made playing one of our titles.”

Back in 2023, Relax Gaming was recognized with the Product Launch of the Year award by the GGA for its Dream Drop Jackpots. As a leading supplier of online casino games, the company offers more than 4,000 quality titles. Forging partnerships with iGaming operators and aggregators, Relax Gaming successfully grows the reach of its games.

“To have created two millionaires so early in 2024 is a wonderful start to the year for our portfolio of Dream Drop titles.“

Simon Hammon, CEO at Relax Gaming

Simon Hammon, Relax Gaming’s CEO, revealed that it is exciting to see two millionaires early in the year, who have secured huge Dream Drop Jackpots. While he said that last year will be remembered considering the number of jackpots won, Hammon also predicted that the company may surpass previous records this year.

-Mk Ssports

At the 16th Annual Michigan Problem Gambling Symposium, University of Oklahoma Law Professor Stacey A. Tovino discussed the unfair treatment faced by people with gambling issues

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Individuals grappling with problem gambling face more than just the challenges of their addiction. They confront a system rife with bias, making it significantly harder for them to access necessary treatment compared to those struggling with other dependencies.

Individuals with Gambling Disorder Navigate Inequities in Health Coverage

At the 16th Annual Michigan Problem Gambling Symposium, held recently, University of Oklahoma Law Professor Stacey A. Tovino shed light on the institutional biases encountered by those with a gambling problem. Tovino highlighted how individuals with gambling disorder are often disadvantaged when seeking healthcare through both public health programs and private insurance plans, reported Play Michigan.

According to Tovino, individuals grappling with gambling disorder are often subjected to disparities in health insurance coverage and policies. These disparities manifest in various forms, including limited coverage, lower spending caps, and stricter requirements for outpatient visits and therapy sessions. Remarkably, these obstacles are not typically encountered by individuals seeking treatment for physical ailments.

Tovino emphasized the disparity in coverage between mental health conditions and gambling disorder, noting that insurance companies frequently provide fewer benefits for the latter. She explained that individuals with gambling disorder may receive significantly fewer covered inpatient days or outpatient visits compared to those with physical health conditions requiring similar therapy.

Medical Insurance Companies Fail to Address Gambling Addiction

Moreover, despite efforts to enhance mental health coverage over the years, including through legislation like the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 and subsequent amendments, problem gambling remains inadequately addressed. Despite being classified as an impulse control disorder, akin to other recognized dependencies, insurance companies often exclude coverage for gambling addiction.

The expansion of online gambling further exacerbates the issue, with insurance policies increasingly failing to provide coverage for gambling disorder, specifically targeting online gambling addiction.

In Michigan, where the benchmark health plan lacks explicit provisions for gambling disorder treatment, individuals struggling with problem gambling find themselves particularly disadvantaged. Unlike alcohol or substance addiction, gambling disorder is not universally recognized as a disability, further complicating efforts to secure coverage and support.

Amidst these challenges, Michigan offers various resources for individuals and families affected by problem gambling, including helplines, self-exclusion programs, and support groups like Gamblers Anonymous and Game-Anon.

Last year the Michigan Gaming Control Board(MGCB) announced that it anticipates receiving approximately $51 million in funding for Fiscal Year 2024. This budget allocation is meant to support the MGCB in its efforts to combat illegal gambling, monitor the market, and promote responsible gambling initiatives, including the “Don’t Regret the Bet” campaign.

-Mk Ssports

The certification of the ballot language by Attorney General Tim Griffin paved the way for the commencement of signature collection by the Local Voters in Charge ballot committee from registered voters

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin has given the green light to revised ballot language for a proposed constitutional amendment. This amendment aims to strip the Arkansas Racing Commission of its authority to issue a casino license in Pope County and mandates local voter approval for any new casino licenses outside of three specified counties.

Arkansas Ballot Initiative Advances Amidst Casino License Controversy

Attorney General Tim Griffin‘s certification of the ballot language sets the stage for the Local Voters in Charge ballot committee to initiate signature collection from registered voters. The committee needs to gather 90,704 signatures, including representation from 50 counties, by July 5 to secure a spot for the proposed amendment on the November 5 general election ballot, reported Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

The proposed amendment comes amidst ongoing disputes over the issuance of a casino license in Pope County, stirring up legal battles and community tensions. With billions of dollars at stake annually in the state’s gambling industry, the proposed changes could have far-reaching implications.

Hans Stiritz, spokesperson for the Local Voters in Charge committee, expressed gratitude for the attorney general’s approval. He highlighted in a written statement that the measure would prevent casinos from entering communities that oppose them and would enable local voters to define the identity of their respective hometowns.

Meanwhile, Allison Burum of Cherokee Nation Businesses reiterated their commitment to their proposed Legends Resort & Casino project, emphasizing its potential economic impact.

Revised Ballot Language Signals Shift in Arkansas Gambling Laws

Griffin’s decision to revise the ballot language reflects concerns about clarity and accuracy. He stressed the need for precise wording to ensure voters fully understand the implications of the proposed amendment. Changes were made to align the language with legal definitions and to provide a clearer summary of the measure’s content.

The amendment seeks to repeal existing authorization for a casino in Pope County and mandates special elections for any future casino licenses outside of specified counties. This move represents a significant shift in the state’s gambling policies, prompting intense debate among stakeholders.

At the same time, at the end of January,  the Arkansas Racing Commission confirmed it is going to revise casino rules, potentially paving the way for the final casino license in Pope County, concluding the state’s casino expansion. 

The approval of the revised ballot language sets the stage for a heated campaign season as both proponents and opponents gear up to sway public opinion. With the potential for major changes to Arkansas’ gambling landscape, the upcoming months promise to be pivotal for the state’s future.

-Mk Ssports

A long and painful path towards license suitability was crowned with success for the company

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Two years after Crown Resorts’ Melbourne property came under government review, and following the acquisition by Blackstone Group, the flagship casino has been deemed fit to retain its license and continue to operate, overcoming a difficult regulatory spell that necessitated strict government supervision because of breach of anti-money laundering laws.

VGCCC Pleased with Progress and Ongoing Efforts

Much of this is now in the past, with the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), a hardened regulator which emerged precisely because of omissions in the previous watchdog’s model, deeming the Crown Resorts property as suitable to carry on. The VGCCC allowed itself rare praise of the property, calling the “systematic failings” of Crown Melbourne a “thing of the past.”

But ongoing suitability will be significantly demonstrated by how Crown responds to instances of operational failure, not by their total absence.

VGCC chair Fran Thorn

VGCC chair Fran Thorn has spoken about the long process that the property and the regulator undertook to ensure that all regulatory benchmarks are met in full and conscientiously. Crown Resorts has confirmed that it will continue to work towards the betterment of its operations and achieving better sustainability.

“Over 10,000 pages of documentation have been submitted and 770 remediation activities have been delivered to our state regulators, fundamentally rebuilding our organization from the inside out,” Crown CEO Ciaran Carruthers said, indicating that the property has been actively working on clearing up its name.

Crown Resorts will also be paying $294 million worth of fines that have to do with the breaches of AML law, or some AU$450 million.

Too Big to Fail but Not Excused from Responsibility

Crown Melbourne is almost “too big to fail” as authorities seriously debated whether the property should lose its license altogether, but in the end, it was deemed that the adverse economic impact would only compound the matter. The property also remained vigilant over its name being misused by bad actors.

Crown Melbourne is the biggest private sector employer to operate out of a single location in the state, employing some 11,500 staff members, which gives it some bargaining leeway. Regardless, VGCCC’s attitude over the past two years suggested that the regulator would not have hesitated to pull the trigger if it had been forced to shutter the company’s license over non-compliance, however.

Recently, Crown Resorts conducted an internal investigation looking into alleged wrongdoings by CEO Carruthers who supposedly allowed patrons who were escorted out by security back in. These allegations proved false.

-Mk Ssports

The five people were charged with multiple charges, including counts of cheat at play, breach of trust, fraud and theft

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Five people have been arrested for an alleged attempt to defraud a Canadian casino. According to Ontarian authorities, the people in question were playing a table game at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto.

While officials did not release details about the cheating attempt, they explained that one of the arrestees was a casino dealer who was in cahoots with the players. However, an anonymous person discovered the scheme and contacted the Ontario Provincial Police Investigation and Enforcement Bureau (IEB).

The IEB, which is attached to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) was called to investigate the matter on March 18. The investigation eventually led to the arrests of the five people in question. The arrestees included Anagha Varghese, 21, Himanshu Tanwar, 25, Parkh Raheja, 25, Tajveer Kour, 21 and Yakshu Nehra, 23.

The five people were charged with multiple charges, including counts of cheat at play, breach of trust, fraud and theft. They were later released from custody and their cases were handed to prosecutors at the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto.

Other Recent Cheating Attempts

Unfortunately, this is not the only time employees and patrons have tried to cheat casino properties. In a recent case in the United States, two employees of Rivers Casino were arrested for alleged participation in a complex cheating conspiracy at a Roulette table.

According to authorities, these included Robin Schnepp, a dealer at the casino, and supervisor Anthony Laush. The two men, according to officials, have aided players win on multiple occasions, resulting in significant winnings.

The cheating occurred with Interblock Roulette where the dealer manually spins the ball in the opposite direction of the wheel. When this manual spinning occurs, the sensors allegedly fail to detect the spinning, allowing players to continue placing bets even after the ball has already landed on a number.

Surveillance footage showed Schnepp spin the ball incorrectly multiple times, after which players would increase their bets after the ball had landed.

Last year, a Brazilian poker professional tried to cheat but was caught and suspended. The issue is that the player was dealt an extra stack of chips at the beginning of the LAPT Mystery KO tournament but did not notify an official, preferring to take advantage of the mistake.

However, another poker player saw him taking out extra chips from his bag and reported the matter, resulting in a suspension.

-Mk Ssports

Las Vegas Sands previously tried to influence Texan gambling laws by creating the Texas Sands political action committee in 2022 and investing $2 million in lobbying efforts for casino gambling legalization

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Las Vegas Sands, which recently acquired a controlling stake in the Dallas Mavericks, has made a bold move by filing a petition aimed at legalizing casino gambling in the state of Texas.

Las Vegas Sands’ Petition Pushes for Casino Resorts in Texas

Las Vegas Sands acquired a significant portion of the Dallas basketball team back in December 2023 and is now setting its sights on reshaping the Texan gambling landscape, reported CBS News.

The petition, submitted by the Texas Destination Resort Alliance, established in 2021, emphasizes its commitment to bringing high-end entertainment, luxurious resorts, and fine dining to Texans. Their strategy involves advocating for the expansion of casino-style gambling within the state.

This is not Las Vegas Sands’ first attempt at influencing Texan gambling laws. Back in 2022, the company launched the Texas Sands political action committee, investing a considerable $2 million to lobby for the legalization of casino gambling.

Despite facing steep opposition, including skepticism from Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who highlighted the lack of Republican support in the state Senate, Las Vegas Sands and its allies remain undeterred.

Furthermore, back in December, Village Walk RE 2 LLC, affiliated with Las Vegas Sands, acquired a 108-acre property in Irving, Texas, near the former Texas Stadium site, sparking intrigue following Las Vegas Sands’ majority stake acquisition in the Dallas Mavericks.

While the purpose of the land remains undisclosed, Sands expressed interest in developing an integrated resort in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, hinting at future acquisitions. This move further signaled potential shifts in Texas’ stance on gambling, with analysts speculating on the Adelson family’s influence in advocating for legislative changes.

Texas Gaming Landscape Shifts with Legislative Efforts and Industry Backing

State Rep. Charlie Geren introduced HJR 97 in February last year, outlining a potential pathway to amend the Texas Constitution and permit the establishment of casino resorts. The Chickasaw Nation, operators of Oklahoma’s Winstar Casino and owners of Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, have also expressed support for the introduction of casino resorts in Texas.

Moreover, upcoming developments such as the opening of the Choctaw Landing Casino and Resort in Oklahoma’s southeastern region further highlight the growing interest in expanding gambling opportunities within Texas’ vicinity.

Separate bills advocating for sports betting have also gained traction, with notable figures like former Gov. Rick Perry and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones endorsing legislative efforts to regulate this activity.For any significant changes to occur, legislative approval and subsequent voter endorsement would be required. With the upcoming 89th Legislature, proponents of legalized gambling are gearing up for a renewed push to sway lawmakers and public opinion in their favor.

-Mk Ssports

Having served as an executive within the company, Rytterstrom will now move onto overseeing the prominent Atlantic City venue

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

MGM Resorts International has promoted from within, appointing Niklas Rytterstrom as the COO and president of the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa. The company confirmed the news on Monday and said that Rytterstrom will be involved with the business’s day-to-day and oversee the casino’s strategic expansion and operations.

Bringing in a Seasoned Veteran at the Borgata

Rytterstrom is a seasoned company veteran who first entered the company in 1999 and started out as assistant hotel manager at Bellagio Resort & Casino over on the West Coast in Las Vegas. He has held various roles throughout the company, including general manager of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and he oversaw the MGM Resorts acquisition in 2022, ensuring a smooth transition.

He also served stints as COO at The Mirage, Excalibur and Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, among other positions of power and responsibility. Commenting on his appointment, Rytterstrom added:

I’m honored to be embarking on this new journey at Borgata. This property is an integral part of the Atlantic City community, and I can’t wait to jump in and continue to help drive growth and success throughout not just this amazing city but New Jersey and surrounding regions.

Niklas Rytterstrom, COO and president of the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa

He will similarly work on building a strong rapport with employees, elevate the company’s guest service, and strengthen community relations so that the Borgata is seen as an important landmark in the area.

A Warm Welcome for an Important Colleague

The newly appointed executive succeeds Travis Lunn on the job, who is heading back to Las Vegas as COO of the Mandalay Bay and Luxor, as well as MGM properties.

Commenting on this corporate rejuggle, MGM Resorts president of operations Steve Zanella said that the company was very happy to welcome Rytterstrom in this new role as his intimate knowledge of the Atlantic City business and the Borgata would allow him to navigate the business towards new heights.

“Nik’s strong leadership skills and strategic vision will continue to differentiate Borgata in a competitive landscape and enhance its position as a market leader,” Zanella explained. Rytterstrom holds a bachelor’s degree in hotel administration and was named in the “Top 25 People to Watch in 2024” by Global Gaming Business Magazine.

-Mk Ssports

The Democratic Party has a lot of members who are opposed to the opening of a casino in Jackson because of economic concerns

Image Source: Shutterstock.com

Mississippi gambling enthusiasts are out of luck as Republican representatives decided not to put forward a bill that would have allowed a casino in Jackson. According to them, the bill lacked sufficient support but that doesn’t mean things won’t change in the future.

Committee Chair Trey Lamar, who filed the bill Monday, explained that representatives of the Republican Party privately discussed the matter and concluded that the bill would not be able to gain enough votes. However, Lamar added that those who hope to see a casino in Jackson shouldn’t give up just yet.

For reference, Mississippi currently allows commercial casinos to only be constructed on the Gulf Coast or along the Mississippi River. Currently, there are 12 casinos on the Gulf Coast and 14 along the Mississippi River. In addition to commercial properties, there are also three tribal casinos operated by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians across the state.

Lamar’s bill would have changed that, creating opportunities for investment in gaming right in the heart of the state. Under his bill, an existing licensed operator would have been allowed to construct and operate a casino in the Mississippi capital, only 1 mile away from the Capitol building.

A New Casino Would Disrupt the Power Balance

For reference, Mississippi’s House is currently dominated by the Republicans. However, the Democratic Party has a lot of members who are opposed to the opening of a casino in Jackson, citing economic concerns.

Rep. Robert Johnson, leader of the House Democrats, believes that a casino in Jackson would disrupt the power balance, hurting Mississippi River casinos. This sentiment was echoed by Democratic Rep. Oscar Denton and Republican Rep. Kevin Ford, who said that their city of Vicksburg would likely get the worst of it.

Vicksburg, for reference, houses the nearest casino to Jackson.

Johnson explained that coastal casinos will likely adapt but “there is no way anybody else could survive” the opening of a casino in the Mississippi capital.

Speaking of coastal casinos, Mississippi’s Senate recently approved the Tidelands Bill, which came as a response to the controversial approval of RW Development’s casino in Biloxi. The measure, however, raised concerns among coastal leaders and the future of local casinos.

-Mk Ssports