The European Gaming and Betting Association has approved the introduction of e-ID wallets for EU citizens. The plan was first proposed by the European Commission.
The new proposal
Under this new proposal, private and public sector bodies will offer e-IDs to EU-based citizens. This allows them to authenticate themselves as they visit these businesses. This must also verify themselves on online gambling sites across the EU.
European Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton said: “It is about giving a choice to consumers, a European choice.” He then added: “Our European companies, large and small, will also benefit from this digital identity, they will be able to offer a wide range of new services since the proposal offers a solution for secure and trusted identification services.”
A solution to a rise in online activity
EGBA believes the proposal will benefit EU-based regulators as well as citizens. It claims it would make it easier to deal with fraudulent activity. It also states that it would allow customers to take control of their own online data by having a say in how it is used. Administrative costs are also likely to drop as a result.
EGBA director Ekaterina Hartmann also believes the change is good. She said: “An ever-increasing number of Europeans are using online services and a common electronic identification method would help them to access online services in a practical, secure way which safeguards their data.”
The benefits
The proposal will strengthen identity verification when it comes to online gambling. This will prevent minors from accessing online gambling and casino sites. It will also help in the fight against fraud and money laundering.
