The iGaming Industry Must Keep Human Control Over AI
UK.- July 10, 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Overview: Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the global iGaming industry, driving significant improvements in efficiency, automation and customer personalisation. However, the increasing adoption of AI also raises important questions around governance, ethics, player protection and regulatory compliance. An analysis published by SBC News argues that the long-term success of AI will depend on maintaining meaningful human oversight over critical business decisions.
News Details
According to SBC News, AI has evolved from being a simple operational tool into a strategic asset across virtually every area of the gaming business.
Operators and technology suppliers are now using artificial intelligence to improve customer service, automate internal processes, detect fraud, personalise marketing campaigns, optimise sportsbook trading and strengthen responsible gambling initiatives.
Quirino Mancini, Founder of SBC Advisory and member of the Advisory Board of 1xCare, summarised the industry’s challenge with a striking comparison:
“It’s like having a very powerful machine gun. You need to know how to use it, otherwise you may end up shooting yourself in the foot.”
His message highlights that artificial intelligence itself is not the danger; rather, the real risk lies in deploying it without appropriate governance, accountability and human supervision.
AI Is Transforming the Entire Gaming Ecosystem
Modern AI solutions are enabling operators to:
- Detect potentially harmful gambling behaviour in real time.
- Strengthen fraud prevention systems.
- Automate operational workflows.
- Deliver highly personalised player experiences.
- Improve sportsbook risk management.
- Optimise customer acquisition and retention.
- Analyse massive datasets to support strategic decision-making.
These capabilities are helping operators become more efficient while offering increasingly tailored experiences for players.
Industry Context
The discussion comes as regulated gaming markets continue expanding worldwide and regulators place greater emphasis on consumer protection, responsible gambling and compliance.
Across the industry there is growing consensus that AI should enhance human expertise rather than replace it. The objective is to build governance models where technology, transparency and human judgement work together to create safer and more sustainable gaming environments.
Statements
SBC News concludes that artificial intelligence should remain a decision-support tool rather than an autonomous decision-maker. Critical areas such as responsible gambling, customer protection, compliance and complex fraud investigations continue to require experienced human oversight.
Next Steps / Industry Impact
Artificial intelligence is expected to become even more integrated into gaming operations over the coming years. The industry’s challenge will be balancing innovation with responsibility by developing transparent AI governance frameworks that preserve trust, accountability and player protection.
Edited by: @_fonta
