Italy tightens gambling laws with age verification
Key Takeaways
Italy is tightening its gambling regulations with new age verification rules. These measures aim to better protect minors and rely on the public digital identity system (SPID). Additionally, the government plans to overhaul online gambling licenses, which are set to take effect in 2025. The European Commission is currently reviewing compliance with EU data protection laws.
Stricter Age Verification for Gambling Platforms
Italy has introduced new guidelines mandating compulsory age verification for all gambling content. This measure is intended to ensure that only adults can access such platforms. Users must confirm their identity through the Public Digital Identity System (SPID) or a comparable method. These systems are already in use for other age-restricted content, such as pornography and certain social networks.
A unique feature of this verification is the so-called “double anonymity approach.” This means that media providers are not allowed to store or track any data related to age verification, thereby protecting user privacy.
Part of the Caivano Decree to Protect Minors
The new age verification rules are part of a broader set of measures introduced under the Caivano Decree. The goal is to protect minors from content that could endanger their physical, mental, or moral development. In addition to gambling platforms, this also applies to other areas deemed potentially harmful to young people.
The European Commission is currently reviewing these measures to ensure that they comply with European Union data protection laws.
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Overhaul of Online Gambling Licenses
In addition to protecting minors, the Italian government plans to reform the licensing system for online gambling providers. Starting in early 2025, new licenses will be introduced, valid for a period of nine years. The cost of these licenses is set at 7 million euros.
Importantly, these licenses will also be subject to strict age verification rules. This ensures that the protection of minors is consistently maintained across the industry.
Our Assessment
With these new regulations, Italy is sending a clear message about the protection of minors. The introduction of a mandatory age verification system based on SPID ensures that only adults can access gambling platforms. At the same time, the double anonymity approach safeguards user privacy.
The planned overhaul of online gambling licenses indicates that Italy intends to more tightly regulate its gambling industry. The high licensing fees and strict requirements could lead to smaller operators exiting the market, while larger companies will have to adapt to the new rules.
It remains to be seen how the European Commission will evaluate the new measures and whether adjustments will be made to fully comply with EU data protection laws.