The global iGaming regulatory landscape is evolving fast, with many emerging markets still building their licensing and enforcement systems. Authorities are increasing their focus on anti-money laundering (AML), player protection and cybersecurity. Meanwhile, the growing use of digital payments, artificial intelligence (AI) and data tools is also changing the way compliance is managed.
Recent studies show that AI is being used more in financial crime prevention and player risk monitoring. Regulators are also paying closer attention to how these tools are governed and used. This reflects a wider shift towards technology-based supervision and stronger expectations around risk management, data protection and operational resilience. For operators, keeping up with regulations has become a core business priority.
In light of these changes, SiGMA News spoke exclusively with Sona Kirakosyan, Head of the Technical Monitoring and Compliance Unit at TotoGaming, about how compliance leaders can navigate rapidly changing regulatory environments, as well as the key technology trends shaping the future of gaming compliance.
When asked about strategies for compliance leaders in emerging markets, Kirakosyan emphasised the value of early engagement, ongoing regulatory monitoring and close collaboration with regulators and industry bodies. She explained that keeping track of draft legislation, public consultations and policy discussions helps operators understand potential changes early and contribute informed feedback.
“Compliance leaders navigating emerging markets should focus on proactive monitoring and close engagement with regulators and industry associations.”
Kirakosyan also pointed to the role of adaptable compliance systems and scenario planning in responding to new requirements. She said local expertise and training staff on jurisdiction-specific obligations are vital for consistent implementation.
She said, “Maintaining continuous awareness of regulatory developments, leveraging centralised and adaptable compliance systems, and scenario planning help organisations respond quickly to changes. Using local expertise and training staff on jurisdiction-specific obligations ensures consistent implementation. By working closely with regulators and technology-enabled monitoring, operators can reduce risk, influence outcomes, and maintain compliance in rapidly evolving regulatory environments.”
Kirakosyan pointed to AI as a key trend in gaming compliance, saying it is already being used to improve monitoring and risk detection through automation. She said that over the next few years, AI is expected to play a major role in gaming compliance. “It enables real-time transaction monitoring, predictive risk scoring, automated KYC, and sanctions/PEP screenings, helping operators detect suspicious activity efficiently.”
She explained that AI-powered tools are now used for onboarding, verification and screening, helping improve the speed, accuracy and security of player management processes. She added, “Driven by innovation, TotoGaming leverages AI-powered solutions for player onboarding, verification, and screening processes. Through the integration of advanced AI technologies, TotoGaming ensures faster, more accurate, and more secure operations across all stages of player management.”
Kirakosyan also pointed to the increasing role of AI in responsible gambling, particularly in detecting risky patterns and supporting personalised interventions. She added that AI-driven solutions are now part of marketing and CRM processes to prevent promotions from encouraging harmful play. She said, “AI also drives responsible gambling innovations, including behavioural analytics to identify risky gambling patterns, personalised interventions, and the integration of RG measures into marketing and CRM campaigns to ensure promotions do not encourage harmful play.”
However, she noted that regulating AI brings challenges, particularly in ensuring fairness and compliance with data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), as the technology becomes more widely used. “Because of its novelty, regulating AI is challenging, as authorities must ensure it does not compromise fairness in gaming or create compliance issues under GDPR. Nevertheless, AI is expected to take on an increasingly decision-making role in the industry, shaping both compliance and operational processes.”
Kirakosyan also pointed to cybersecurity as an increasingly important part of compliance, particularly as digital wallets, online gaming platforms and crypto payments become more common.
She stated, “Cybersecurity will become even more central to compliance, especially for digital wallets, online gaming platforms and crypto payments. Operators need strong technical controls, secure transaction systems, intrusion detection and regular penetration testing to protect player data and prevent fraud.”
As regulatory requirements continue to change alongside new technologies, compliance is becoming more closely connected to operations and technology. The wider use of AI, digital payments and advanced monitoring tools shows how compliance, risk management and cybersecurity are increasingly linked across global iGaming markets.
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