Finland’s Veikkaus set to launch ID verification for slots in January

The gambling monopoly in Finland, Veikkaus, has announced that ID verification controls will be mandatory for slot machines starting 12 January 2021

Veikkaus has announced the details of the much-anticipated launch of the programme. The operator highlighted that players must log to gamble on the slots. 

The move follows efforts to mitigate the number of open slots throughout Finland; aiming to remove 8,000 slots from the line of service by the end of 2020. 

The news comes after the Veikkaus launched a pilot programme back in September before extending it to other areas in November.  

Restrictions to land-based gaming have been introduced worldwide in bid to control the spread of COVID-19. Finland was no exception as Veikkaus entered restrictions across a number of regions in November which ended 15 December. Areas excluded from the restrictions include: Eastern Savo and Lapland.  

Ruling for further potential restrictions for land-based operation are to be announced today (16 December).  

Verikkaus’ Senior Vice President of Channels and Sales Jari Heino commented on the situation stating: 

We continue following the instructions and will act accordingly,

He adds: 

The authorities have access to the best expertise available as regards the coronavirus pandemic, and we will naturally act in compliance with their instructions.

Furthermore, Verikkaus has entered negotiations with approximately 800 employees over temporary lay-offs after closing arcades.  

Source: iGaming Business  

About SiGMA’s revamped website:

SiGMA Group is excited to announce the launch of its newly revamped website. The website is currently available in 6 languages, English, Russian, French, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Spanish with plans to add another 4 languages over the coming months – namely Thai, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi.