GVC New Specialist Set to Improve Means of Player Protection; Releases PlayPause Through BetMGM

In the dynamic world of online gambling, the commitment to player protection and responsible gaming has become a cornerstone for reputable operators. As the industry continues to evolve, particularly in markets like South Africa where online engagement is growing, the focus on player safety is more critical than ever. Leading the charge in this crucial area is Entain, formerly known as GVC Holdings, a global sports betting and gaming group that has consistently invested in cutting-edge initiatives to safeguard its players.

Entain's proactive approach to responsible gambling is exemplified by its strategic partnerships and the development of innovative programs designed to identify and assist at-risk individuals. These efforts not only set a benchmark for the industry but also highlight the importance of a holistic strategy that combines expert knowledge, advanced technology, and collaborative tools to foster a safer online environment for all.

Enhancing Player Protection Through Expert Collaboration

Entain has demonstrated a strong commitment to responsible gaming by collaborating with leading experts in the field of behavioural addiction. A significant partnership was forged with Dr. Mark Griffiths, a distinguished Professor of Behavioural Addiction and Psychology at Nottingham Trent University. With over three decades of experience studying addiction and online behaviour, Dr. Griffiths was tasked with a comprehensive audit of Entain's (then GVC's) responsible gaming guidelines and processes, providing invaluable recommendations for improvement.

This collaboration underscores the industry's recognition that understanding the psychological aspects of gambling is vital for effective player protection. Dr. Griffiths' expertise has been instrumental in shaping Entain's strategies, ensuring that they are grounded in scientific research and best practices. His insights have directly contributed to the creation of advanced programs aimed at proactively protecting players.

The Advanced Responsibility & Care (ARC) Program Explained

A direct outcome of Dr. Mark Griffiths' recommendations is the Advanced Responsibility & Care (ARC) program. This innovative initiative is designed to significantly enhance player protection by meticulously analysing player behaviour. Entain's data scientists utilise the vast amount of player data as protection indicators, developing sophisticated models that can predict and analyse the behaviour of online casino players.

Under the ARC program, players, including those engaging with mobile casino platforms, are assigned a risk rating based on their play patterns and various other factors. This real-time monitoring, coupled with advanced analytical tools, allows Entain to identify potential signs of problem gambling early. The findings from Dr. Griffiths' work, combined with the data collected through ARC, are crucial for developing safer measures and effective intervention methods for individuals who may be experiencing gambling-related harm. With access to a global database of over 160 million player behaviours, Entain possesses an unparalleled resource for data collection and analysis, enabling continuous improvement in its player protection protocols.

Pioneering Responsible Gambling with PlayPause

Beyond internal programs, Entain has also been at the forefront of adopting industry-wide responsible gambling tools. The company announced its partnership with Conscious Gaming, becoming the first user of PlayPause, an innovative tool designed to aid responsible gambling. While PlayPause was initially developed for the United States market to facilitate multi-state self-exclusion, its underlying principle of enabling players to exclude themselves across various platforms and jurisdictions represents a significant step forward for player safety globally.

Shay Segev, then CEO of GVC (now Entain), expressed the company's enthusiasm for being the first user and official partner of PlayPause. He highlighted that accountability is a defining feature of any successful operator. By embracing tools like PlayPause, Entain reinforces its commitment to ensuring that customer experiences are not only enjoyable but also safe. The system allows for the collation of data on self-excluded players, aiming to recognise and prevent them from gambling in different states or, by extension, across different platforms. This initiative, though specific to the US regulatory landscape, showcases Entain's dedication to pioneering solutions that promote greater player control and safety, a principle that resonates strongly with the need for robust responsible gambling frameworks in South Africa.

For more information on Conscious Gaming and their initiatives, you can visit their profile on LinkedIn.

Why Responsible Gambling Matters for South African Players

For South African players, the efforts of global operators like Entain serve as a vital reminder of the importance of choosing platforms that prioritise player safety. While the regulatory environment for online gambling in South Africa continues to evolve, the principles of responsible gambling remain universal. Players should always look for online casinos that offer robust self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and access to support resources.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the emphasis on player protection will only intensify. Initiatives like Entain's ARC program and partnerships with tools like PlayPause demonstrate a proactive approach to mitigating gambling-related harm. In South Africa, resources such as the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) provide essential support and guidance for individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and utilise the tools and support available to ensure their online gaming experience remains safe and enjoyable.