Massachusetts Gambling Regulator Discusses Multi-Factor Authentication for Sports Betting Accounts

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has been continually committed to keeping high standards of customer data safety, a topic subjected to discussions at the latest remote public meeting of the authority. Regulators are currently considering the implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA) for online sports betting accounts, an important aspect of responsible gaming regulations.

Jordan Maynard, MGC Chair, explained the reasons that made regulators consider adopting stronger protection mechanisms: “If you have your bank account, your debit card tied up to something like online sports betting account, it’s good to lock it up with MFA.”

Eileen O’Brien, MGC’s Commissioner, also spoke in favor of the suggestion. She explained that by implementing the additional account security feature, unauthorized access to gambling would be reduced. Minors, for example, will have to overcome an additional safety measure to get access to gambling content, if they use the phone number of a parent.

On the other hand, some commission members questioned the need for the mandatory introduction of MFA, stating that consumers should be left to decide for themselves if they want it or not.

MGC Considers Two Possible Models of MFA

Provided that the state regulator considers the measure necessary, two possible models of Multi-Factor Authentication will be reviewed. Sports betting account holders may be mandated to either use MFA upon every log-in or occasionally.

The first model, requiring bettors to use MFA upon every log-in, is also under consideration in Ohio. The second model, mandating account holders to use MFA once every two weeks, has been adopted in Iowa, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

During the last meeting, the MGC did not reach a decision. The gambling regulatory authority explained that it would consult the state’s licensed operators and inquire about their opinion on the extra security feature.

These regulatory developments in the MGC happened in parallel with a key figure attending their final meeting. Bruce Band, Sports Wagering Division Director since January 2023, will be stepping down from his position.

MGC Chair, Jordan Maynard called him “a living legend” who had dedicated more than 10 years to the gaming commission. As per information from the MGC, Mr Band has extensive experience in the sphere of casinos and associated regulations. Over the years, he has assisted in launching more than 20 casinos in New Jersey and Massachusetts.

Meanwhile, the MGC has taken another important step in the field of responsible gambling. The regulatory authority has formed a new workgroup tasked with the use of AI to determine problem gambling risks. While the research process is still in its early stages, its findings could lead to mandating Massachusetts sports betting operators to use AI for analyzing customer data and intervening if problem gambling behavior is identified.