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Explore the iGaming Market  at the 5th annual Cyprus Gaming Show on October 23-24, 2024, at Hilton Nicosia. Gain valuable insights from industry experts and leaders. The iGaming sector in Europe is anticipated to continue its upward trajectory, thanks to supportive regulatory frameworks in several European countries, including Cyprus, that enhance consumer confidence and attract international operators. This has created a secure and vibrant environment for both players and businesses. Did you know that the continent has already generated a total of 8.2 billion Euros (US$8.87 billion) in recent years, with forecasts predicting an increase to 126.3 billion Euros (US$136.6 billion) by 2026? It goes without saying that this creates incredible opportunities for businesses and investors alike. This year marks the 5th annual Cyprus Gaming Show, taking place from 23 – 24 October 2024, at the luxurious Hilton Nicosia, nestled in one of the most upscale avenues of Cyprus’ vibrant capital. With just a few days left, now is the perfect time to seize the opportunity to attend. Cyprus’s strategic geographical position between Europe, the Middle East, and Africa makes it an ideal hub for those in the iGaming industry looking to access diverse markets. What’s more, the country’s iGaming market is currently flourishing thanks to a combination of favourable regulations, economic incentives, and a growing digital landscape. Key topics on the line-up include: ● Speaking Your Players’ Language: How Localisation and Multilingual SEO Can Elevate Your iGaming Brand ● iGaming in 2025: Navigating the Future of SEO and Affiliate Marketing ● Payment Challenges for Operators: Exploring Opportunities and Overcoming Hurdles in the Market There’s still an opportunity to register for this event if you haven’t done so already. Simply follow this link to sign up:   https://www.eventus-international.com/cgs . Related article: Cyprus Gaming Show: The Ultimate iGaming Investment Opportunity

Curious about the most searched casino games? Poker leads the list, captivating U.S. players with its strategic depth and social appeal. If you’re wondering what are the most searched casino games, you might be surprised to find that Poker reigns supreme, enticing players across the U.S. with its blend of strategy and social interaction. A recent study by BetMGM for the American Gaming Association  has found that Poker is the most searched casino game in the United States. This trend underscores the game’s immense popularity and growing appeal among players. Using Google Trends, BetMGM analyzed the search habits of online casino gamers throughout 2024. The findings show that Poker outstrips other games in interest. A spokesperson for BetMGM noted that many individuals learn the game socially, which likely drives them to search for it online. This social aspect seems to be a significant factor in Poker’s continued success. While Poker tops the list, it faces competition from other casino games. The study identified the five most searched games, which include: 1. Poker 2. Slot machines 3. Blackjack 4. Roulette 5. Bingo The authors of the study suggest that the increasing availability of online Poker, alongside the rise of streaming and vlogging, has contributed to the game’s growing popularity. This surge in interest has also led to record-breaking participation in Poker tournaments across the country. State-Specific Trends in Online Gaming Searches The study also highlighted regional variations in the popularity of different casino games. Unsurprisingly, Nevada emerged as the leader in searches for Poker, Roulette, and Blackjack, solidifying its reputation as a traditional gaming hub. However, Pennsylvania claimed the top spot for searches related to the term “online casino,” reflecting the state’s strong legal framework for online gaming. In Washington D.C., Bingo took the lead as the most searched game, showcasing a local preference for this classic pastime. Meanwhile, southern and central states, including Mississippi, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Alabama, and Louisiana, showed a strong inclination toward slot games and online slot machines. This trend may be linked to the high number of land-based casinos in these regions, which likely fuels interest in online slot gaming. The report indicates a broader cultural shift in the United States. More Americans are embracing casino gaming and sports betting as acceptable forms of entertainment. This change highlights a growing acceptance of gambling activities in society, leading to increased interest and participation in various gaming options. Poker’s Continued Popularity in Online Gaming Poker’s status as the leading online casino game comes as no surprise. Earlier this year, another American Gaming Association study had already predicted the game’s upward trajectory. That study forecasted a substantial growth in global online Poker, expecting the industry to expand from $59.4 billion in 2022 to over $155 billion by 2030. Researchers anticipate an annual growth rate exceeding 11%, underscoring the game’s bright future. Among the various types of Poker, Texas Hold’em stands out as the most popular variant. Its straightforward rules and multiple styles, such as no-limit and pot-limit, make it appealing to both new and experienced players. The game’s accessibility and strategic depth contribute to its ongoing success. In addition to Texas Hold’em, several other Poker variants are gaining attention, including: Omaha Seven Card Stud Five-Card Draw High-Low Chicago Razz Poker The Future of Online Gaming This study provides valuable insights into the changing landscape of online gaming in the United States. With Poker leading the way, it is clear that players are increasingly turning to online platforms for their gaming needs. The combination of social learning, accessibility, and the rise of online streaming content has created an environment ripe for Poker’s continued growth. As states like Pennsylvania embrace legalized online gaming and others follow suit, the future looks promising for all casino games, especially Poker. Related article: Vietnam's Christmas Present? Curbs on Online Casino Games

UEA8, one of Southeast Asia’s top online casino platforms, has announced a major new partnership with M8bet Singapore , a leading name in sports betting. This collaboration is set to deliver an enhanced gaming experience by combining UEA8’s casino offerings with M8bet’s expertise in sportsbook and live betting on one platform. The platform boasts a diverse selection of games, live dealer options, and a seamless user interface. Its recent integration with M8bet Singapore adds a new dimension, offering a broader range of sports betting and interactive content. As a result, players will have access to an expanded array of sports betting options and interactive gaming content-all under one platform. With a well-established presence in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, UEA8 is recognized for providing a premium online casino experience. “This partnership with M8bet Singapore aligns with our goal to provide an outstanding gaming experience,” said James Lim, CEO of UEA8. The collaboration reflects UEA8’s continued commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry. As UEA8 continues to dominate Singapore’s online gambling landscape, players can now explore a richer selection of games and betting options, ensuring an immersive and exciting gaming environment. Related article: Top 5 Most Searched Casino Games Searched in the U.S.

ClawBuster CEO Timofey Lipskiy  discusses how younger players are shaping online gaming trends and driving demand for casual, interactive experiences in a Slotegrator interview. ClawBuster CEO Timofey Lipskiy  highlighted the rising demand for casual gaming, driven by a younger demographic seeking engaging, easy-to-play experiences. Emphasizing simplicity and interactivity, Lipskiy showcased how ClawBuster’s games are uniquely positioned to captivate players and keep them coming back for more. The idea for ClawBuster emerged when the team explored integrating physical claw machines with mobile apps. This concept allowed users to control real claw machines and win tangible prizes, but high user acquisition costs hindered its sustainability. Recognizing the potential to adapt claw mechanics for online casinos, ClawBuster pivoted to create engaging claw-based games, merging familiar slot mechanics with unique features to stand out in a competitive market. In a rapidly evolving gaming landscape, what particular player trends or industry developments are they most excited about? Lipskiy pointed out, “One of the trends that excites us is the shift toward casual gaming experiences. As the demographic of casino players gets younger, there’s a noticeable demand for games that are not only engaging but also easy to understand and quick to play. This is where our games excel, as they blend simple mechanics with exciting, interactive elements that keep players coming back.” The company operates worldwide, including Asia, Europe, and North and South America. The company’s global reach enables Lipsky to compare different experiences in various markets: “For example, in Asia, where claw machines are already culturally popular, our games have naturally resonated with players. In contrast, in Tier 1 countries like the US, where players are more open to innovation, the claw mechanics bring an element of fun and engagement that stands out.” To effectively target their audience, ClawBuster develops online slots that incorporate arcade-inspired claw mechanics, enhancing intrigue and maximizing engagement. The developer’s top two performers are Book of Claws, which can grab multiple scatters, and Hot Lucky Sevens Claw, which pulls out wins of up to x5000 — a new mechanic that can replace respins or expanding wilds. ClawBuster also adjusts RTP and volatility to make the games suitable for specific markets, and customizes themes according to local preferences. The studio’s focus is on using data to make informed decisions — operators get access to analytics and game performance to understand what works best for every country and audience. ClawBuster also collects feedback to keep developing exciting new titles. Future Trends and Player Engagement Looking ahead, ClawBuster remains committed to engaging with players and operators alike to refine their games. The studio actively gathers feedback throughout the development process, from early prototypes to final releases, ensuring that their products meet the evolving expectations of younger demographics. For more insights into the evolving gaming landscape, visit Slotegrator’s  website and explore how ClawBuster is shaping player experiences through innovation and engagement. ABOUT SLOTEGRATOR Since 2012, Slotegrator has been one of the iGaming industry’s  leading software and business solution providers for online casino and sportsbook operators. The company’s main focus is software development and support for online casino platforms, as well as the integration of game content and payment systems. The company works with licensed game developers and offers a vast portfolio of casino content: slots, live casino games, poker, virtual sports, table games, lotteries, casual games, and data feeds for betting.Slotegrator also provides consulting services in gambling license acquisition and business incorporation. ABOUT CLAWBUSTER ClawBuster is a developer of slots with a claw machine mechanic integrated into a gaming process and adding more entertainment and engagement to the games. The studio operates worldwide adjusting and providing games for every specific market according to its local demand. ClawBuster is known for high quality 3D graphics, AI-driven analytics, and data-based development. Related article: Slotegrator Shares Insights on Online Gambling's Effect on Gen Z

South Korea's lottery sales hit a record US$3.3B in H1 2024, a 26% increase from 2023 and 62% higher than 2020, says the Ministry of Economy and Finance. The continuous rise in lottery sales is striking when examined over the past several years. Sales have surged since 2020, demonstrating a clear upward trend. In the first half of 2020, sales amounted to 2.62 trillion won. This figure grew to 2.94 trillion won in 2021 and further climbed to 3.15 trillion won in 2022. The steady increase reflects changing attitudes toward lotteries and gambling as a whole in South Korea. Experts attribute the rise in south Korea lottery sales to several factors. One major influence has been the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on other forms of gambling, such as casinos and horse racing. As restrictions and health concerns limited access to these venues, many individuals turned to lottery tickets as a more accessible form of entertainment. The pandemic has also led to a shift in public perception regarding lotteries, with many viewing them as a legitimate chance for financial gain. A recent survey conducted by the finance ministry’s lottery committee sheds light on how lottery winners plan to use their winnings. Among the winners of Lotto, South Korea’s most popular lottery, 35 percent indicated they intended to invest in homes or properties with their prize money. Additionally, 22 percent expressed intentions to pay off debts, while 12 percent planned to assist family members financially. These responses highlight the practical motivations behind participating in the lottery, as many see it as a pathway to improve their financial situations. Almost 70% of lottery ticket sales were conducted online, with printed tickets following closely behind. This year, lottery winners will be able to collect a staggering total of 2.26 trillion won, marking a 30.1% increase from last year’s total of 1.74 trillion won. In South Korea, approximately 110 million lottery tickets are sold weekly for the upcoming draw. On average, about 12 individuals secure the top prize, each taking home around 2.1 billion won. Winners will receive the cash after applicable withholding taxes have been deducted. A tax rate of 22% is imposed on prizes ranging from 2 million to 300 million won, while those winning more than 300 million won face a higher rate of 33%. Roughly two-thirds of the proceeds from ticket sales are allocated to support low-income individuals, people with disabilities, and ex-offenders, providing them with housing assistance, job training, scholarships, and other essential social programs. About half of the total sales are awarded to winning ticket holders, with the remaining 7% allocated for marketing and operational costs. Related article: $ 9.18 Billion Bet in Singapore for Lottery, Sports Betting

South Korean comedian Lee Jin-ho admits borrowing money from BTS's Jimin for illegal gambling, apologizing for the controversy. On social media, Jin-ho, a regular on popular variety show Knowing Bros said he began gambling online in an illegal site last 2020. He has since stepped down from the show due to the controversies. “I will fully cooperate with the police investigation and accept the consequences of my actions,” he said, as quoted by a report of the Korea Times. Lee stated that he has been repaying his debts monthly and will continue to do so, while also cooperating with police investigations. Entertainment industry sources detailed that several celebrities, including BTS member Jimin, were financially impacted by Lee’s actions. Lee has yet to repay the debts amounting to 100 million won from Jimin, which was sent in through online transfer in 2022. Jimin’s agency BigHit confirmed he “incurred financial damage,” due to this while the loan was given with a “signed agreement.” To cover his debts, Lee borrowed large sums of money from several celebrity friends, including comedian Lee Soo-geun, singer Young Tak, and Wanna One member Ha Sung Woon. Lee reportedly defrauded them of hundreds of millions of won. “As reported, it is indeed true that financial losses have occurred [to Jimin]. He lent money with a signed promissory note.” Knowing Bros’ network, JTBC, shared that they will “edit out as much of his previously filmed content as possible” following his decision to leave the program. Related article: Online Gambling Addiction Among South Korean Teens Soars

Teen online gambling addiction in South Korea has surged in 4 years, raising concerns over the growing number of young people turning to online casinos. According to a report by the Korea Times , the number of teenagers receiving online gambling addiction counseling has more than doubled from 1,286 in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, to 2,665 by the end of August this year. More teens are struggling to break free from gambling, according to data, as the rate of successful gambling cessation dropped to just 24.9 percent in 2023 as compared to 49.2 percent in 2020. The number of teenagers addicted to gambling are getting younger, according to the data, with 20.6 percent of middle school students aged 14 to 16 struggling with addiction, as compared to 12.8 percent in 2020. Data has also showed that teens have shifted from sports betting to online casinos, with 59 percent of them participating in online casinos from 8.9 percent four years ago. This data comes amid the staggering increase among online gamblers in South Korea. Recently, celebrity Lee Jin-ho apologized for his ties to illegal online gambling. Lee, a famous comedian in South Korea, has victimized fellow celebrities including Jimin, a member of Kpop supergroup BTS. Data from a separate Korea Times report showed that illegal gambling industry activities also tripled from 16,662 in 2023 to 48,648 this year, as cited by the National Gambling Control Commission to the office of Rep. Min Hyung-bae of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea. For Representative Cho Gye-won, a Member of Parliament from the Democratic Party of Korea, this stresses the need for stricter measures against illegal gambling. Campaigns were also mounted to fight underage gambling in South Korea and help educate youngsters. Related article: Indonesia Wants Teens Exposed to Online Gambling In Rehab

China’s Supreme Court reports 27,000 illegal gambling cases in 2024, a 10.65% rise, driving tougher efforts to combat cross-border gambling crimes. The SPC’s announcement highlights the seriousness of the issue. In the SPC press release cited by AGBrief, the court outlined its commitment to ensuring consistent and lawful punishment for gambling crimes by publicizing seven typical cases. This initiative aims to unify sentencing standards across different jurisdictions and promote a coordinated approach to dealing with such offenses. One case that has drawn considerable attention is that of Alvin Chau , the founder of the Suncity Group, who was at the center of a notorious cross-border gambling syndicate. Reports indicate that Chau’s operation facilitated over RMB300 billion (approximately US$42.2 billion) in bets from Chinese gamblers between 2015 and 2019. This case has been recognized as one of the top ten criminal cases of 2023, underscoring its impact on the nation. The SPC has emphasized that the growing prevalence of offshore casinos and online gambling platforms targeting Chinese citizens has led to substantial capital outflows and social harm. The Chau case exemplifies these challenges, serving as a critical reminder of the risks associated with illegal gambling activities. In total, the SPC identified six significant cross-border gambling cases, with the Chau operation  being a prime focus due to its extensive reach and the financial implications for China. Chau’s gambling empire thrived on various fronts. He operated VIP rooms in several casinos in Macau while establishing online gambling platforms in the Philippines and other regions. His operations expanded rapidly, with over 480 shareholder-level agents by late 2021. Notably, more than 280 of these agents were Chinese nationals. Chau’s organization also managed to attract a vast clientele, boasting over 60,000 customers from China alone. Authorities took action against Chau in November 2021, when he was arrested by Macau’s Judiciary Police. He faced charges not only for illegal gambling but also for gang-related activities. Following a lengthy legal process, Chau was sentenced to 18 years in prison in January 2023. His appeals against this sentence were dismissed earlier this month, solidifying the judiciary’s stance against such criminal enterprises. Related article: Illegal Online Gambling Cases In Korea Triple Since COVID

Political gambling returns to the U.S. as a federal court allows Kalshi to resume regulated election-betting markets, the first in nearly a century. Political gambling has officially returned to the United States, just weeks before Election Day on November 5, 2024. A federal appeals court in Washington, D.C., has ruled in favor of Kalshi, a financial exchange startup, allowing the company to resume its regulated election-betting markets. This marks a significant development, as it is the first time in nearly a century that people in the U.S. are allowed to gamble on the elections. On October 9, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia unanimously lifted a temporary ban on Kalshi’s markets. This decision came after the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) sought to halt the trading, arguing that election betting could undermine election integrity and create conflicts of interest among voters. However, the court found that the CFTC did not provide adequate evidence to support its claims of potential public harm. The ruling permits Kalshi to allow users to place bets on which political party—Republican or Democrat—will control the House or Senate after the 2025 elections. The court noted that while concerns over election integrity are valid, the CFTC had not substantiated its claims sufficiently. As a result, the CFTC may pursue further action if new evidence arises in the future. These political betting markets operate on a similar principle: they enable bettors to wager on outcomes like Kamala Harris or Donald Trump securing victory on November 5. The resulting balance between the two sides reflects each candidate’s odds of winning. The platforms earn revenue from fees on every transaction, so increased trading activity translates to higher profits for the companies. Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour expressed excitement over the court’s decision. He was quoted as saying in a report published by Politico.com , “We are incredibly honored to bring safe, regulated, and trusted election markets to the U.S. This week is the dawn of a new era for financial markets.” The company is poised to expand its offerings beyond party control bets, potentially covering a broader range of political contests, including presidential elections. The CFTC has historically opposed betting on congressional elections, arguing that it could lead to ethical dilemmas. Although betting on elections is not illegal at the federal level, certain states, such as Texas and Nevada, have banned it. International betting platforms like Polymarket and PredictIt have long offered odds on elections, but Kalshi’s model stands out due to its full regulation by the CFTC. The platform can now facilitate bets amounting to as much as $100 million. Kalshi’s road to this milestone has not been without challenges. The company faced a lawsuit from the CFTC in November 2023, which aimed to prevent it from offering betting options on election outcomes. In response, Kalshi filed a lawsuit against the CFTC, seeking to overturn the agency’s restrictions. A lower court ruled in favor of Kalshi on September 6, which set the stage for this latest ruling by the appeals court. Related article: What Betting Markets Reveal About the Donald Trump-Harris Polls

At the Global Gaming Expo, AGA CEO Bill Miller highlighted three "mega trends" driving casino growth, focusing on gaming, sports, and technology integration. The gaming industry is undergoing a significant transformation, as innovative approaches and a focus on younger demographics are reshaping the casino landscape. American Gaming Association President and CEO Bill Miller emphasized these changes during his keynote address at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas. He outlined three “mega trends” that he believes are driving growth in the sector, with a particular emphasis on the integration of gaming, sports, and technology. One of the most striking trends is the noticeable decrease in the average age of casino visitors. Miller pointed out that the average age has dropped from 50 in 2019 to 42 today. This shift is crucial for an industry that has historically struggled to attract younger customers. Miller was quoted as saying in a report published by Inside Asian Gaming , “A decade ago, the gaming industry was trying to figure out why we weren’t appealing to younger generations. The mantra back then was, well, we’ll get them when they’re 50. That’s changing.” The COVID-19 pandemic served as a turning point, partiuclarly for younger generations seeking in-person experiences that had been absent during lockdowns. As casinos reopened, they became attractive destinations for Millennials and Gen-Zers looking for social interactions and entertainment. Miller noted that this demographic shift has been bolstered by an omni-channel approach that many operators are adopting to enhance customer engagement. Miller highlighted how casinos have started to embrace an omni-channel strategy that blends physical and digital experiences. This approach allows operators to connect with younger audiences in ways they prefer. “Post-pandemic, we are continuing to capture younger adults through innovation such as fast-growing mobile and online platforms,” he explained. The average age of online players is even lower, at just 34 years. Miller drew parallels with the retail industry, which has successfully integrated physical stores with digital platforms to offer a seamless shopping experience. He stated, “Millennials and Gen Zers have come to expect this kind of integrated experience, and our industry is rising to meet those expectations.” Major operators are now launching casino-first iGaming products, allowing online players to earn rewards that can be redeemed for in-person experiences. This data-driven approach helps operators create personalized experiences that resonate with younger customers. By leveraging insights from integrated platforms, casinos can tailor offerings to individual preferences, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Another significant factor in attracting a younger demographic is the growing integration of gaming and sports. This trend has been especially noticeable in Las Vegas, where major sports franchises like the NFL’s Raiders and NHL’s Golden Knights have relocated. Miller pointed out that the convergence of sports and gaming has led to increased fan engagement and new content tailored for sports betting enthusiasts. “Vegas’s transformation echoes a broader integration of sports and gaming,” he stated. “We see this in the widespread partnerships between gaming companies and major sports leagues.” This collaboration has resulted in growing broadcast rights and fees, benefiting not only athletes and teams but also the gaming industry as a whole. MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle echoed Miller’s sentiments in a fireside chat at G2E, noting that sports are indeed a significant factor in lowering the average age of visitors to Las Vegas. “One of the things bringing down the age demographic here in Las Vegas is sports,” he confirmed. Related article: ClawBuster on Younger Players' Impact on Online Gaming Trends

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is marking its first overseas venture by securing authorization to operate betting websites in Brazil. The announcement was made public by Brazil’s Ministry of Finance on October 1, 2024. According to the Philippine Star , the Philippine gaming company is among 93 companies awarded this crucial approval. DigiPlus, known for operating popular local digital gaming platforms such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and PeryaGame, is targeting Brazil as a new market amidst an easing regulatory environment. The company had initially anticipated receiving this authorization by the end of November, reflecting its proactive approach to entering Brazil’s newly legalized domestic gambling industry. This development marks DigiPlus’s first foray into the international gaming market, a move that is part of its broader strategy to diversify its portfolio. Brazil represents a lucrative opportunity for DigiPlus, with its population exceeding 200 million and an internet penetration rate of approximately 87%. These factors make Brazil one of the fastest-growing gaming markets in Latin America. Formerly known as Leisure & Resorts World Corp, DigiPlus aims to tap into this potential while continuing to prioritize the Philippines as its core market. Last August, DigiPlus applied for the Licença Para Loterias De Apostas De Quota Fixa, a federal license that permits operations related to land-based and online sports betting, electronic games, and live game studios. The company’s recent financial performance underscores its robust growth trajectory. In the first half of 2024, DigiPlus reported a staggering net income of PHP5.2 billion, marking a 377% increase compared to PHP 1.1 billion during the same period last year. Revenues soared by 263%, rising from PHP 8.9 billion to PHP32.5 billion. This significant growth was primarily driven by the strong performance of its digital retail segment and the favorable adjustments in revenue sharing agreements with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The success of its digital platforms has been evident, leading to a remarkable rise in its share price. Since the start of 2024, DigiPlus’s stock has more than doubled, climbing from PHP8.1 to PHP20.25 as of mid-August.

Southeast Asia faces a rise in cyber-enabled fraud and organized crime, largely driven by the growth of Illegal online gambling platforms and casino-related activities. Southeast Asia is grappling with an alarming surge in ction of casinoyber-enabled fraud and organized crime, primarily linked to the proliferas and illegal online gambling platforms. A report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) underscores the role of underground casinos, junkets, and high-risk virtual asset service providers (VASPs) in this alarming trend. Released on October 7, 2024, the UNODC report  reveals that the convergence of cybercrime and money laundering has created a fertile ground for organized crime syndicates to flourish in the region. Financial Impact of Cyber Fraud The financial losses attributed to scams in East and Southeast Asia are staggering. The UNODC estimates that these losses will reach between $18 billion and $37 billion in 2023 alone, with a high proportion of these losses attributed to scams committed by organized crime groups in Southeast Asia. The report suggests that criminal organizations increasingly exploit casinos and online gambling platforms to launder money and carry out other illicit operations, posing substantial challenges for law enforcement across the region. The Role of Underground Casinos and Online Gambling Illegal online casinos are becoming central to the operations of transnational crime groups. These venues serve as key channels for integrating illicit funds into the formal economy. The UNODC report highlights the prevalence of these illegal activities, particularly in border regions and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like the Golden Triangle and parts of Myanmar, Cambodia, and Lao PDR. The Philippines and Cambodia have been significant hubs for regulated offshore gambling. However, both countries are experiencing a rapid spillover into illegal operations. Despite an official ban on online gambling in Cambodia, unregulated platforms continue to thrive, often controlled by criminal networks. Technological Advances in Organized Crime The report also reveals that Asian crime syndicates are adapting to new technologies and service-based business models. They are leveraging tools such as malware, generative artificial intelligence (AI), and deepfakes to enhance their operations. These advancements have enabled organized crime groups to engage in larger-scale fraud and money laundering, creating what the report terms a “criminal service economy.” Masood Karimipour, UNODC Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, emphasized the urgency of recognizing and addressing this rapidly evolving threat. He noted that organized crime groups are exploiting vulnerabilities in the system, creating a dangerous environment that governments struggle to contain. Human Trafficking and Forced Criminality The report reveals a dark facet of this issue: organized crime groups are increasingly involved in human trafficking for forced criminality. Thousands of workers are coerced into participating in scams from illegal compounds. Many of these individuals are lured into these centers with false job advertisements, highlighting a grim reality that accompanies the rise of cyber-enabled fraud. The Growing Influence of AI in Crime One particularly alarming trend identified in the report is the rise of AI-driven crimes, particularly those involving deepfakes. There has been a 600% increase in mentions of deepfake-related content targeting criminal groups in Southeast Asia during the first half of 2024. This integration of generative AI into criminal enterprises represents a powerful force multiplier, expanding the scope and efficiency of cyber-enabled fraud. John Wojcik, UNODC Regional Analyst, stated that these developments lower the barriers to entry for criminal networks. Groups that previously lacked the technical expertise are now able to exploit sophisticated methods for profit. UN Recommendations The UNODC report builds on the ASEAN Regional Cooperation Roadmap to Address Transnational Organized Crime. It offers a series of recommendations aimed at strengthening legislative frameworks, enhancing regulatory responses, and improving enforcement in the region. These measures are designed to assist governments in tackling the challenges posed by organized crime and cyber-enabled fraud. “It is important to revise and strengthen legislation concerning money laundering, virtual assets, and casino management. Mechanisms should be established to review investor profiles in casinos and online platforms to identify beneficial ownership. Furthermore, adapting mutual legal assistance frameworks will facilitate the freezing and seizure of assets, states the UNODC report. As Southeast Asia faces this multifaceted threat, the findings of the UNODC report serve as a wake-up call for governments and law enforcement agencies. With the rise of online gambling and the increasing integration of advanced technologies into criminal operations, a coordinated and proactive response is essential to combat the growing influence of organized crime in the region. Related article: Illegal Online Gambling Cases In Korea Triple Since COVID