As problem gambling behaviors and disorders continue to persist, more methods and technologies have been developed in an attempt to help individuals overcome such harmful behaviors. One such technology that’s recently been created in Australia is facial recognition software, which uses camera technology to identify problem gamblers by their faces. But does facial recognition help with gambling problems? Let’s take a look at how facial recognition for gambling problems works and why it may or may not be an effective solution.
How It Works
Facial recognition for problem gambling may be the future for casinos and other venues that offer gambling services. The technology starts when a person opts to enroll themselves anonymously into a registry by submitting their picture and name for identification. This data is safely encrypted so that nobody, not even venues or police, can access it. Once their data has been added, it will be shared with casinos that integrate the software into their system so that they can quickly identify a problem gambler who enters their establishment.
The facial recognition system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect individuals who give their information to the data registry in real time. If the AI’s camera notices someone who enrolled in the registry system arriving in the building, it will alert the staff of the establishment, who will then take action to prevent them from partaking in any gambling behavior. This can include escorting the dedicated individual away from slot machines or asking them to leave the area, among other actions.
Numerous venues across Australia have already incorporated facial recognition technology for problem gambling prevention. However, whether or not it will be an effective solution is still debated.
Potential Problems
Does facial recognition help with gambling problems? It’s rather complicated. While facial recognition for problem gambling may offer some benefits, it’s certainly not without its challenges. For example, while it is being rolled out in physical venues, its implementation will not curb problem gambling with online and virtual sites.
However, the more pressing problem with facial recognition technology is the ethical questions it raises. Because the AI’s cameras scan everyone present in the venue, it implicates all guests even if they did not opt into the data registry. Many believe that using this technology is a privacy violation that’s taking surveillance too far, which may be a slippery slope for greater surveillance concerns. In addition, using facial recognition for gambling problems is considered by many to be too invasive compared to other prevention methods that have been developed over the years.
For More Information on Problematic Gambling Behaviors, Reach Out to 800-GAMBLER Today
If you believe that using facial recognition for gambling problem prevention is going overboard, then you’ll be pleased to learn that there are many alternative methods to help those in need. At 800-Gambler, we have many resources available to help you and your loved ones overcome and curb problematic gambling behavior. From helpful webinars you can watch to Gamblers Anonymous meetings you can attend, we’ll help you in more ways than one. For more information, give 800-GAMBLER a call today.