Cyprus National Betting Authority Chairman Calls for AI Tools and Stronger Illegal Gambling Enforcement

Cyprus is combining tougher enforcement against illegal operators with expanded use of artificial intelligence to detect and address gambling-related harm. Panayiotis Trisokkas, chairman of the National Betting Authority, delivered the message at the country's 9th Safer Gambling Conference, which launched the ninth Safer Gambling Week under the slogan “Play within limits. Play safely.”

“A well-regulated market is a prerequisite for a sustainable market. And a sustainable market is one in which player protection is an integral part of its operation,” Trisokkas said. He cautioned that meeting regulatory requirements alone is not enough and that authorities must continually review whether existing frameworks remain appropriate for changing market conditions and emerging risks, according to Focus Gaming News.

The conference gathered academics, researchers, regulators and industry representatives from Cyprus and other jurisdictions. Sessions covered illegal betting, artificial intelligence, public health issues, the psychological and biological drivers of risk-taking behaviour, and developments across European gambling regulation that treat gambling harm as a public health challenge.

Lucy Herodotou Mouskou, director of financial management at the Ministry of Finance, highlighted the National Betting Authority's work. She warned against prioritising industry growth over consumer welfare and stressed that economic prosperity and consumer protection must go hand in hand. The Safer Gambling Week campaign emphasised awareness, education and support for young and vulnerable consumers.

Role of AI in Early Detection

Conference participants examined how artificial intelligence, data analytics and digital technologies could identify problematic gambling patterns at an earlier stage. Trisokkas expressed confidence that such tools would improve understanding of player behaviour and strengthen protection measures across the sector.

Cyprus Regulatory Direction

The emphasis on technology alongside enforcement sets a clear expectation that consumer safeguards must evolve with the market. Authorities will likely demand ongoing adaptation from operators rather than static compliance alone.