New Jersey harnesses player data analysis in RG initiative
Division of Gaming Enforcement looks to players exhibiting warning signs of problem gambling with groundbreaking strategy
New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at the identification of problem gamblers through the use of operator player data.
Under the proposed model, the DGE will work with operators in the state on technology-based initiatives targeting responsible gambling, with operators required to analyse player data to determine if a player is experiencing problem gambling.
An initiative in planning since March 2022, and launched on January 1, 2023, it is the first program of its kind in the country to be implemented.
The new requirements introduced this year apply to online wagering and will supplement the state’s existing responsible gaming safeguards.
In order to standardize these parameters, the DGE has grouped them into warning signs which operators should use when assessing players.
These include players whose gambling time increases from week to week as well as those who repeatedly self-impose cooling-off periods from their gaming.
In addition, those who place bets until they have less than one dollar in their accounts, as well as those who regularly access self-exclusion pages on operator websites without activating a self-exclusion period.
The DGE has said the initiative will provide “proactive, targeted outreach” to increase awareness among players of problem gambling, giving them resources to consider when managing their gambling.
This relies on “circumstance-dependent” interventions, with activities split over three levels.
At level one, gamblers will receive automated outreach regarding responsible gaming and associated resources.
If the warning signals continue to level two, they would then be required to view a video tutorial explaining responsible gaming and available resources before being allowed to continue gambling.
At the third level, the operator’s responsible gaming lead or team will directly contact and address the issue with the individual concerned.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin welcomed the initiative, citing the Garden State’s strong track record of gambling regulation.
“Under the Murphy administration, New Jersey has become a national leader in online casino games and sports wagering, and with that growth comes a responsibility to ensure that individuals at risk of compulsive gambling have access to the resources they need to get help,” Platkin said.
“It is no coincidence that our announcement comes just a week ahead of one of the biggest days in sports wagering, serving as a reminder of how devastating a gambling addiction can be.
“This new initiative will allow the Division of Gaming Enforcement to work with the gaming industry to identify problematic patterns in player wagering behavior and intervene before they escalate,” he added.