Spain promotes algorithm for problematic gambling behaviors
The DGOJ, an agency under the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and the 2030 Agenda, officially presented a predictive algorithm designed to detect risky gambling behaviors, both on-site and online platforms.
The tool uses real behavioral microdata to recognize patterns associated with addiction or excessive gambling, aiming to enable early intervention before serious problems develop.
"This is a revolutionary tool for designing public policies based on scientific evidence, and a decisive step to protect vulnerable people and their families," said Andrés Barragán, Secretary General of Consumer Affairs and Gambling, during its presentation.
A step towards standardizing gambling control
Until now, gambling operators developed their own internal risk detection systems, with varying results and no uniform criteria. With this new model, the DGOJ seeks to standardize the use of data and methodologies among the different sector stakeholders, ensuring greater accuracy, transparency, and consistency in preventing problematic gambling.
The agency indicated that the algorithm is currently undergoing regulatory evaluation, and once approved, it will be mandatory for all licensed operators in Spain to implement it. The measure is part of the provisions of Royal Decree 176/2023, which established new obligations to create safer and more responsible gambling environments, including automatic detection and control mechanisms.
A congress focused on the social impact of gambling
The announcement took place within the framework of the 1st International Gambling Congress, which brought together regulators, specialists, operators, and sector associations in Madrid under the motto "The social impact of gambling".
The event, inaugurated by the Minister of Social Rights, Pablo Bustinduy, addressed the economic, technological, and social challenges facing the industry, with special attention to consumer protection and responsible gambling.
During the two days, round tables and conferences were held on topics such as technological innovation, regulation, public health, and corporate responsibility, highlighting the relevance of the new algorithm as a replicable model for other European countries.
"Spain consolidates its position as a benchmark in responsible gambling policies and in the application of artificial intelligence for social welfare," emphasized a statement from the DGOJ.
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