Online Gambling is the activity of placing bets and wagers using digital devices like smartphones, tablets and PCs. Online gambling encompasses many different types of games, from online slots to betting on sports events. While many people play for fun, some are at risk of developing a problem. Recognizing a problem is the first step to getting help. If you’re worried about your gambling habits, try GamCare’s free self-assessment tool.
While the majority of online gamblers use mobile devices to access sites, desktop computers and laptops remain important routes of entry. These platforms also offer greater opportunities to engage in different activities such as betting on esports and using cryptocurrencies.
In addition to ID verification and AML checks during onboarding, gambling operators must implement continuous fraud detection strategies throughout the player journey in order to mitigate financial crime risks. Fraudulent activity in online casinos can affect a firm’s bottom line through lost revenue, costly chargebacks and strained relationships with payment processors. It can also put a strain on resources that reduces efficiency in the fight against fraud and money laundering.
In the US, criminals exploit online gambling platforms to legitimize illicit funds. By leveraging stolen credit cards and false identities, they can deposit and withdraw illegally obtained funds from their accounts. Additionally, the anonymity of these transactions makes them a good vehicle for money laundering. This is why it’s essential for FIs to have comprehensive, multi-layered fraud prevention systems in place to identify red flags at the time of transaction.