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Exclusive Q&A with Alexander Kamenetskyi, Sportsbook Product Owner with SOFTSWISS
‘The house always wins’ is one of the oldest adages in sports betting. It must be most trusted quote too, as numerous once-bitten punters would vouch for.
Here is the other side of the story.
Alexander Kamenetskyi, Sportsbook Product Owner with SOFTSWISS, talks about the steps that Sportsbooks take to keep fraudulent activities at bay.
You must read the interview for his lucid and succinct deconstruction of frauds that take place in the betting arena.
Over to the interview now!
Q. We’ve had a fabulous Euro 2020, in which Italy deservedly emerged winners. The betting industry also enjoyed thriving business during the period. But there have been reports that the level of betting frauds increased manifold. As a Sportsbook Product Owner, how do you view the situation?
A. First of all, I would like to congratulate all the fans of the Italian national team on their victory! We were finally able to enjoy the football battles of Euro 2020. In my opinion, it was an amazing championship full of dramatic and exciting moments.
As statistics show, such large events always see a spike in cases of fraud and that’s why we are always ready to track such activity and mitigate the risks for our clients.
Q. Could you share some practical experiences where you faced fraudulent activities and how you dealt with it?
A. Fraudsters always try to find system weaknesses in bookmaker lines and exploit them. This time they knew they had a chance to go unnoticed for a long time, as the attention of all bookmakers’ was drawn to the Euro 2020. Oftentimes bookmakers may also contribute to the appearance of such fraudsters themselves.
Speaking of the SOFTSWISS Sportsbook team – we are perfectly prepared for the arrival of unwanted guests. Over the course of the championship we mainly saw players with counterfeit documents, but our platform had just the tools to track and prevent such manipulations.
Typically, fraudsters bet on unpopular types of sports and weak leagues. Sometimes they are at the matches in person or they bet ahead of the curve when there’s a fast video broadcast. This is quite easy to track, and we resolve such cases pretty quickly.
Quite often in such cases, players ‘artificially’ raise their maximum bets for specific markets (e.g. via betting from several accounts), but we prevent this by analyzing player bets and player activity.
We have our own Risk Management and Anti-Fraud teams, as well as the Betradar Risk Management team and Managed Trading Services. We are also currently in the process of developing automated tracking systems
Q. What kind of frauds do you normally anticipate as a sportsbook operator?
A. The list isn’t vast.
First, come the ‘arbers’, or players who find arbitration situations between bookmakers and exploit them.
Secondly, there are ‘button players’ who place bets seconds after the outcome becomes clear.
There are also ‘valuebetters’, or those who bet on higher odds or odds with an advantage.
Then there are middle betting players, who are mostly playing for the total, and usually with an advantage.
And then there is the very widespread type of fraudster – the bonus hunter. Bonus hunters find weak points in bookmaker promotions and exploit them to their advantage. Some of these can be white hat bonus hunters and we even have someone like that in our team.
Of course, match fixing is the bane of the sports industry and is one of the most serious offenses. Naturally, there are many more types of sports betting fraud, but the ones I mentioned are the most widespread.
Q. How do you plan to tackle the potential frauds?
A. We are working on developing our own Sportsbook Risk Management team. We are also building our internal Risk Management Tools (RMT). Our RMT system is based on long-term experience in the field, market needs, new innovative technologies, and artificial intelligence. The system will be universal in that it will help us work not only with fraudsters, but also with ordinary players.
Q. Could you share some insights into the software-enabled checks and AI-powered analyses that aid fraud detection and prevention in betting?
A. Unfortunately, I cannot reveal all the cards because RMT is an anti-fraud system. I can only say that we are developing tools that rely on artificial intelligence based on data analytics. We are already working on unique tools to combat the main types of fraud, which will react not only to the style of play but also to overall player behaviour.
I can also add that our protection system does not just work for each project separately, but encompasses all brands across our platform.
Q. Coming back to the Euro 2020, what are the new things that happened in connection with fraudulent betting? Is it a case of new-age fraudsters emerging or is it a case of old punters becoming smarter – just like the Italian defenders?
A. The Italian defenders showed us a level of play we can look up to. I can say that the average scammer is rather diverse. The experienced type is always on the lookout for new projects, erroneous proposals, and mainly uses trite and true scam methods. Younger scammers place more emphasis on modern methods such as bots.
Q. Do all the fraud detection and prevention mechanisms affect the pure joy of punting? Will the whole process become cumbersome for the genuine bettors? Would love to hear your thoughts on this topic.
A. Our tools work not only with negative players, but also with positive ones. We place a lot of attention on working with those players who have proven themselves to be honest and conscientious. Additionally, we create great bonus offers for our players that encourage their gaming activity and do not use complex wagering systems. We are also very keen on soon introducing gamification to the platform, which is currently in development.
Q. Finally, how do you see fraudulent activities and the prevention mechanisms pan out in the future? What’s your bet on this?
A. The world of betting is huge, but it hasn’t reached its peak yet. Of course, fraud will continue to develop and there are many reasons for this.
First-time bookmakers who are poorly versed in the basics of sports betting will continue to create inaccurate bonus offers, miscalculate the bonus math and create bonus overlap. Errors in the betting lines and a lack of analytical work will continue to generate negative outcomes.
It is our job to create a product that fortifies the operator from negative outcomes, but we aren’t able to entirely wall ourselves off from the market. That is why we will be working on new tools to combat fraud and further improve the quality of our product, first and foremost, so that ordinary players can enjoy the game.
Our main task is to provide a reliable, high-quality product to the players. Sports betting is a great way to have fun. And that’s why we are creating a safe and secure environment around sports betting with SOFTSWISS Sportsbook.
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EPIC Restart Foundation joins National Gambling Support Network
EPIC Restart Foundation is excited to announce its new partnership with the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN), commissioned by GambleAware, as it begins 2025. The NGSN is a collaborative network of organisations offering free, confidential treatment and support for anyone affected by gambling-related harm, available across England, Scotland, and Wales.
The NGSN has seen an increase in demand for its services, with nearly 11,000 people supported between April 2023 and March 2024 – a 12% rise from the previous year. By joining the NGSN, EPIC Restart will enhance the network’s ability to reach even more individuals, offering a seamless pathway into treatment, through to recovery, ensuring people have the ongoing support they need to rebuild a positive life.
EPIC Restart provides free support through Recovery Coaching, group sessions, online and in-person events, and a vibrant online community. Their team, made up of people with lived experience, creates a welcoming, non-judgmental space where individuals can connect, share, and feel supported – helping to break down the shame and stigma often associated with gambling harm.
The NGSN now includes 13 providers, with Reframe Coaching also joining the network, further strengthening the support available nationwide. With EPIC Restart’s addition, the network’s collective approach to recovery is more comprehensive than ever before, offering a well-rounded range of services to meet the needs of those affected by gambling harm.
Richie Paxton, EPIC Restart Foundation Interim CEO and Head of Programmes said: “We’re excited to join the National Gambling Support Network and continue to work with other providers to offer a seamless and supportive recovery path to those experiencing gambling harm. At EPIC Restart, we are dedicated to offering compassionate guidance and coaching, grounded in lived experience. Our mission is not only to help individuals navigate their recovery, but also to empower them to rebuild their lives with renewed hope and a brighter future.”
Anna Hargrave, GambleAware Deputy CEO and Chief Commissioning & Strategy Officer, said: “The GambleAware commissioned National Gambling Support Network continues to be a staple within local communities across the country and is recognised for the vital support it offers to those affected by gambling harms across Great Britain.
“It has always been the intention for the NGSN to expand and build on the services it offers since it was commissioned almost two years ago, and EPIC Restart Foundation continues that expansion and adds valuable experience and expertise to the network.
“Gambling harms can affect anyone, and it is vital that there is a service for everyone that needs support, regardless of whether they are at the start, or nearing the end, of their journey to recovery.”
Following the publication of the Gambling White Paper last year, GambleAware has called on the Government to ensure the expertise within the NGSN and wider third sector is recognised and protected within the future gambling harm treatment system. This includes ensuring organisations with a long-term recovery focus are factored into future funding plans.
The post EPIC Restart Foundation joins National Gambling Support Network appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Blast Off with Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars!
Play’n GO takes players on a cosmic collision course with Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars, the highly anticipated sequel to Invading Vegas. This intergalactic slot promises high-octane entertainment as Earth’s favourite city collides with Martian mayhem.
Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars reimagines the chaos of its predecessor, introducing a Martian twist to Sin City’s neon chaos in the form of the alien’s very own version of Vegas on Mars. From Space Cowboys to walking Wilds, the game is packed with out-of-this-world features, making it a must-play for fans of quirky, story-driven slots.
Players can expect a five-reel, 20-payline slot filled with thematic symbols and an immersive soundtrack. And while the stakes are high, the thrills are even higher, with the potential to win up to 2,500x your bet.
Key to the game’s unique appeal is its Walking Wilds, activated when full symbol stacks appear on reels one and two, or four and five, without a winning payline. These wilds traverse the reels, leaving Mystery Symbols in their wake, transforming spins into nail-biting experiences as multipliers of up to x10 stack the rewards.
Twelve Free Spins await players who land three Space Car Scatters, and these can be retriggered for up to 120 spins – a feature perfectly suited for players chasing high volatility and big wins. The interplay between Mystery Symbols and Walking Wilds ensures that every spin builds suspense, with multipliers combining for explosive payouts.
Fans of Invading Vegas will love this intergalactic evolution, which takes the cheeky charm of the original and amplifies it with Martian visuals and dynamic gameplay. With stacked high-paying symbols and colourful animations, Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars is a feast for the senses .
Head of Game Retention at Play’n GO, George Olekszy, said: “Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars is the ultimate mash-up of chaos and charm. Players will love the Walking Wild feature and the adrenaline-fuelled re-spins that bring big-win potential. It’s Play’n GO doing what we do best – innovating to entertain.”
Play’n GO continues to raise the bar in creative slot design, delivering an intergalactic adventure that’s sure to delight fans of the original and newcomers alike. Strap in and join the invasion – Mars has never been this much fun!
The post Blast Off with Invading Vegas Revenge on Mars! appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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TEAM VITALITY AND SKIN.CLUB SUPPORT THE SECOND EDITION OF THE ELITE FE TOURNAMENT ON CS2
Team Vitality is proud to announce its support for the second edition of the Elite FE tournament, organised by streamer and Elite FE founder, Minaleyy.
The women’s Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) event, is organised in collaboration with Skin.Club, and brings together the world’s top players to participate in tournaments for a €1000 cash prize.
With only 6% of women in professional esports, the Elite FE tournament aims to promote female talent within the CS2 scene and strengthen their visibility. This initiative is part of an overall effort to encourage more diversity and inclusion in the esports industry.
A SPRINGBOARD FOR WOMEN’S CS2 TEAMS
The Elite FE tournament will bring together 16 international women’s teams, including 4 selected by Minaleyy in collaboration with Team Vitality and Skin.Club, to compete on the FACEIT platform. In each tournament, the winning team will be awarded €1000 as well as various prizes, including Team Vitality merchandising and gaming equipment.
From 23rd February, the entire tournament will be broadcast live on Twitch and hosted by Minaleyy, who will be accompanied by various casters. Debriefs, game analysis, and engaging video content will be produced to contribute to the visibility of the participating teams and encourage conversations on social media.
Designed as a warm-up for professional teams ahead of the upcoming ESL Impact season, the Elite FE tournaments will be held every two months starting in February 2025, with matches scheduled on Sundays to maximise participation and viewership. By aligning with major esports events, Elite FE aims to be a key tournament for player development and a training ground for teams aspiring to reach the professional level.
This tournament represents a competitive, positive and inclusive vision for diversity in esports. By regularly hosting events, Elite FE aims to become an essential platform for CS2 players, while actively showcasing emerging talent.
TEAM VITALITY CONTINUES ITS COMMITMENT TO WOMEN’S ESPORTS
By supporting the Elite FE tournament, organised by Minaleyy, Team Vitality reaffirms its strong commitment to developing women’s esports. The competition provides semi-pro and amateur players with a unique platform to enhance their skills, increase their visibility and integrate into a scene moving towards greater diversity.
This initiative builds on Team Vitality’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in esports, which to date has included the creation of its women’s League of Legends team, the Rising Bees, and its women’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang team. These initiatives reflect the club’s commitment to actively supporting the emergence of leaders both in the competitive field and at a community level. Team Vitality and Minaleyy are also thrilled to welcome Skin.Club to the project, ensuring the best conditions for the project’s success and maximising visibility for players within the CS2 ecosystem.
The post TEAM VITALITY AND SKIN.CLUB SUPPORT THE SECOND EDITION OF THE ELITE FE TOURNAMENT ON CS2 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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