Denmark to Implement Player ID System Across Retail Gambling Outlets

Summary:

• Danish players will be required to use IDs when playing at retail gambling outlets
• These ID cards must be linked to the player’s gambling account
• The measure is aimed at enhancing player protection and preventing money laundering and match-fixing

Denmark is set to implement a betting ID card system across all retail venues in the country starting October 1, 2023. The measure, first proposed in 2019, is aimed at providing stronger protection for players and reducing the risks of money laundering and match-fixing on sports bets.

Players IDs to Boost Customer Protection

The new system will require players to use IDs when playing at betting shops across Denmark. The IDs should be linked to the player’s gambling account through which they rece>ive their winnings.

Customers may use either a physical or virtual card, at the discretion of the betting operator. With firms adopting a cross-channel approach to implementing this new requirement, existing customers who don’t currently have online accounts may be required to create one.

Through the ID cards, players can set deposit limits to keep their gambling under control and minors will be prevented from entering betting shops. Furthermore, it will be much easier and more secure for players to claim their winnings as records will be kept electronically. This means they may still receive their winnings in the absence of a physical betting slip.

In addition to that, customers registered with the ROFUS self-exclusion scheme after the ID card requirement takes effect will not be allowed to enter betting shops.

Reducing Money Laundering, Match-Fixing Risks

Apart from strengthening player protection, the use of player IDs is also seen as a deterrent for individuals engaged in illegal activities, including money laundering. With sports betting players now required to link their IDs to their gambling accounts, they can no longer place bets anonymously. This will make it easier for authorities to trace individuals if suspicious transactions are detected.

The Danish government first agreed to implement the player ID system back in 2019. The measure was re-endorsed in November 2021 after gaining cross-party support. The proposal was spearheaded by the Ministry of Taxation previously led by Morten Bødskov. At that time, Bødskov said the measure would put a stick in the wheels of the criminals who launder money by playing at retail venues.

The player ID requirement is also hoped to address the issue of match-fixing which now falls under the remit of the Danish Gambling Authority, Spillemyndigheden. The regulator earlier this year became the secretariat for the national platform to combat match-fixing, taking on the role from Anti-Doping Denmark.