AI Revolutionizes Player Protection in North America: Focus on Behavioral Monitoring

Player protection in North America is evolving rapidly, driven by technological innovations and increasing awareness of responsible gaming. As gambling revenues in the US steadily rise, especially in the iGaming and mobile sports betting sectors, the importance of protecting vulnerable players also grows. Companies like Mindway AI are at the forefront, bringing European expertise to the US market.

Carl Ørnstrup Etzerodt, Legal and Regulatory Affairs Manager at Mindway AI, emphasizes the need to move beyond mere "checkbox compliance." His company is forging crucial partnerships to create safer player environments. These efforts show that the North American market is ready to adapt modern approaches to responsible gambling.

Numbers and facts

Mindway AI has expanded its presence in North America through several significant partnerships. These include collaborations with PrizePicks, DraftKings, and Amelco. The partnership with PrizePicks, now majority-owned by Allwyn, involved the integration of Mindway AI's GameScanner last October. This system analyzes and flags risky gambling behavior, allowing operators to intervene proactively.

Etzerodt described the PrizePicks deal as a "highlight" for Mindway AI in North America. DraftKings implemented Gamalyze, an interactive test from Mindway AI, in January 2026. This test uses a simulated card game to give players insights into their own gambling behavior. It replaces standardized questionnaires, leading to higher engagement and more honest self-reflection from players regarding their risk profiles. In March 2026, a partnership with Amelco followed, a provider working with major operators like Fanatics Betting and Gaming and Hard Rock Bet. This collaboration allows Amelco's clients to seamlessly integrate Mindway AI's AI-driven insights into their platforms.

“PrizePicks has established itself as a true frontrunner when it comes to responsible gaming. Their proactive approach in implementing GameScanner shows a commitment to lead the DFS and sports entertainment space by using AI to identify at-risk patterns before they become problematic.” - Carl Ørnstrup Etzerodt, Legal and Regulatory Affairs Manager at Mindway AI

Mindway AI tracks almost 15 million players daily. This underscores the statement that "science-based AI isn't just a luxury; it's an operational asset." Richard Bayliss, Director of Product Compliance and Safer Gambling at Playtech, who joined Playtech after over a decade with the UK Gambling Commission, also confirms the central role of compliance and responsible gaming for expansion strategies. These figures and partnerships highlight the growing importance of AI and data-driven solutions for player protection.

Background

The development of the North American gambling market is characterized by growth and a simultaneous demand for enhanced player protection. The American Gaming Association (AGA) reports steadily rising revenues, particularly in online gambling and mobile sports betting. This increases pressure on operators to take their duty of care seriously. The "checkbox compliance" denounced by Mindway AI reflects a tendency to fulfill regulations superficially rather than ensure comprehensive, proactive protection. Etzerodt suggests that US regulators should look to markets like Brazil for inspiration, where behavioral monitoring was mandated from day one. The goal is to integrate technical requirements directly into the infrastructure, rather than as an afterthought, to create a sustainable market.

Canada, particularly Alberta and Ontario, also represents a key focus area for Mindway AI. Alberta plans to follow Ontario's regulated model, placing a strong emphasis on mandatory self-exclusion and overall player health. Ontario, a regulated market for four years, offers the opportunity to refine mature responsible gaming programs using more granular neuroscientific data. Historically, gambling in the US has been shaped by local regulation. Decaying towns like Deadwood in South Dakota proved in the late 1980s that legalizing gambling could revitalize communities. Deadwood became the third US jurisdiction to legalize casino gaming in 1987, after Nevada and Atlantic City. This led to great enthusiasm, bringing over a million tourists to the town annually, as noted by Mike Rodman, Executive Director of the Deadwood Gaming Association.

Why it matters for German players

While North America is only now building comprehensive online gambling regulation, Germany has already established a strict framework with the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). For German players, the player protection enshrined in the GlüStV 2021 means that they enjoy high security in legal German online casinos with a GGL license (Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder). This includes fixed limits such as the monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros and the stake limit of 1 euro per spin on slots. Currently, the stake limits of 1 €/spin and the deposit limit of 1,000 €/month are critically discussed, as they drive many players to illegal providers without a license. Systems like LUGAS (Länderübergreifendes Glücksspielaufsichtssystem) actively monitor players and prevent simultaneous play at multiple providers. The option for quick self-exclusion via OASIS (Online Player Status Query) is also part of the protective measures.

Technologies like those from Mindway AI could play a greater role in Germany in the future to further individualize and improve protection. A focus on behavioral monitoring rather than just "checkbox compliance" is also desirable here, to detect problematic gambling behavior even earlier and provide targeted help to players. GGL casinos are already obliged to implement player protection measures, but the use of AI could make these efforts even more effective.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For online casinos with a GGL license in Germany, the development in North America confirms the path towards comprehensive and technology-supported player protection. The strict German requirements, such as the connection to LUGAS and OASIS, already form a solid foundation. However, advanced AI solutions, such as those used by Mindway AI, could further optimize the compliance efforts of German providers. The early detection of risk behavior through gamification and AI-driven analysis could significantly increase the effectiveness of player protection measures and at the same time increase acceptance among players who do not want to be exclusively stigmatized as "problem gamblers." GGL casinos acting in a future-oriented manner will integrate such technologies into their compliance strategies, not only to meet regulatory requirements but also to proactively ensure a safe and responsible gaming environment. This could allow them to distinguish themselves positively from providers who merely meet the minimum requirements.

“Because Amelco and Mindway share the same mission regarding customer health and keeping players safe, this partnership feels incredibly natural.” - Carl Ørnstrup Etzerodt, Legal and Regulatory Affairs Manager at Mindway AI