In a decisive move to curb illicit gambling and match-fixing, Sweden has rolled out a set of stringent regulations, effective from the 1st of July 2023. These modifications to the Gambling Act (2018) were sanctioned by Riksdag, the Swedish Parliament, and aimed to fortify the nation’s gambling sector against criminal infiltration.
Licensed Operators must fully Cooperate with the Swedish Police Authority
The newly implemented rules mandate that all entities holding a gambling license must actively cooperate with the Swedish Police Authority during inquiries into crimes related to gambling. This involves sharing crucial data that could aid these investigations, fostering an environment of openness and mutual assistance between the gambling sector and law enforcement agencies.The updated Gambling Act now allows gambling licensees to handle a player’s personal data, but only if it is essential for identifying and reporting potential breaches of sports regulations, particularly those related to match-fixing. This initiative is designed to reinforce the integrity of sports and shield it from fraudulent activities that compromise the principles of fair competition.Furthermore, Sweden’s National Sports Confederation, along with its member sports associations, are now authorised to handle personal data in cases where match-fixing is suspected. This modification empowers sports organizations to take a more active stance in the battle against match-fixing, thereby preserving the integrity of their sports.
Undercover Checks on Operators
The Gambling Inspectorate, Spelinspektionen, has been given the green light to conduct anonymous purchases of online gambling services, a practice commonly referred to as ‘mystery shopping’. This strategy ensures that licensees adhere to the licensing requirements and promotional restrictions outlined in the Gambling Act.In addition, the government now holds the authority to specify the information that payment mediation service providers must reveal. This provision aims to create a more efficient mechanism for intercepting payments intended for unlicensed gambling activities, effectively tightening the noose on unauthorized operators in the digital domain.Sweden’s new coalition government has reiterated its dedication to fostering a gambling industry devoid of illegal activities, safeguarding the integrity of sports, and ensuring the protection of its players. The introduction of these new measures represents a significant stride towards realizing this commitment.