Can Facial Recognition Technology help with Problem Gambling?
Published:
Jan 15, 2025
,
07:04 pm.m
ET
Key Points
Facial recognition technology has been incorporated in casinos and other gambling venues.
FCT can help curb gambling and criminal activity.
More research is needed on the accuracy and effectiveness of this technology.
FCT can’t be used alone; problem gamblers need a comprehensive form of treatment.
Gambling has become increasingly popular over the years. In Australia alone, 80% percent of adults gamble, according to the Journal of Gambling Studies. Most people in the study reported spending time in casinos and similar establishments, nearly on a weekly basis. While gambling is an entertaining activity for most people, it can be crippling for some others. Gambling can become an addiction that negatively impacts one’s finances, career, relationships, and daily lifestyle.
Facial recognition has been touted as a solution to combatting problem gambling. It can help enforce gambling self-exclusion programs. This technology allows an individual to be removed from gambling activities at casinos and other venues. Some casinos have incorporated the use of facial recognition technology (FCT). While facial recognition can help in this matter, it’s not a flawless solution to gambling addiction. This behavioral addiction requires comprehensive and personalized solutions.
How is facial recognition technology used in the gambling industry?
Facial recognition can help identify individuals who have been banned from gambling establishments. For this technology to work, individuals would have to remove themselves willingly. Facial recognition can also help with stopping criminal activity and money laundering. The system immediately identifies the individuals who were previously banned from the casino and alerts the casino of their whereabouts.
Facial recognition helps both casinos and individuals who struggle with problem gambling. It can enhance a casino’s security measures and offer a personalized experience. Casinos can focus on their most valuable patrons. Facial recognition can also prevent criminals from entering the premises. This prevents fraudulent gambling activities from taking place.
What does research show regarding the effectiveness of facial facial recognition technologies in stopping self-excluded problem gamblers?
Research has shown that facial recognition can help problem gamblers from entering casinos and other gambling venues. However, there is no proof of its effectiveness. There are also concerns with accuracy, limitations, and false detection of individuals. As a result, research has been mixed in suggesting whether facial recognition technology can identify individuals.
Additionally, facial recognition technology alone can’t help with treating the root of addiction. It can only help individuals who struggle with gambling addiction from entering these venues. These studies concluded that facial technology can’t be used alone for problem gamblers. They must also seek some sort of treatment. Problem gambling requires a wider approach to tackling the root cause of the issue, which can include counseling and support.
Is facial recognition used to combat problem gambling in the United States?
Facial recognition is now available to prevent problem gambling. For instance, it has already been utilized at some casinos in the United States. It can ban problem gamblers upon entrance. This technology identifies the individual even if they change their appearance or the lighting is different.
Security is immediately alerted about the individual. Facial recognition can also help individuals who are struggling with problem gambling. This type of technology has been used for other gambling issues, such as criminal activity and money laundering. The collected data can help casinos develop relationships with high-value players and offer more responsible gambling opportunities.
What other technological advancements can help with problem gambling?
Gambling addiction has increased in the past few years due to the latest technological advancements and social media trends. For this reason, the available treatment approaches must keep up with the latest trends. There are emerging technologies that can help individuals with problem gambling.
AI chatbots provide support to individuals at risk for gambling addiction and offer educational resources and professional services.
Gambling addiction tracking apps allow individuals to track their gambling behavior. Some might include key features like financial tracking, time limits, and resources about problem gambling.
Virtual reality (VR) therapy makes mental health services more accessible to those who live in remote areas. In a one-on-one setting with a clinician or counselor, individuals can become aware of their triggers and learn healthy coping skills.
Another option is virtual therapy. Birches offers comprehensive telehealth technology. The individual receives specialized treatment from the comfort of their own home. Virtual therapy eliminates the need for travel and time requirements. Plus, Birches works with most insurance companies and offers affordable options.
Recovery starts with a self-assessment. From there, the individual will receive an official diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. Another upside of virtual therapy is that individuals can book appointments around their busy schedules.
Interested individuals and loved ones can book an initial consultation with Birches via this website. You can also start your mental health journey by calling 833-483-3838 or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com.
