Macau: gaming operators to share data about gamers

A new security technology that involves facial recognition will be used and the information will be shared between companies to find problematic gamers

Macau.- Gaming operators based in Macau are currently using a new security technology that involves facial recognition and could be very useful for data sharing between companies.

The technology, known as iTrak Incident Reporting and Risk Management System, is developed by US-based surveillance and security technology company Omnigo Software.

It allows operators to share data on gamblers considered to be problematic and includes services such as Facial Recognition, Visitor Management, Lost and Found and other functions. Casino employees can use data-driven security intelligence to address incidents in real-time, track persons of interest.

“One of the major benefits of penetrating a market like Macau with Omnigo’s security system is that casinos can draw from a shared database of banned patrons, advantaged players, and VIP guests from Day One of implementation. Sharing data across properties enhances security and surveillance for everyone by allowing casino operators to exchange critical information with each other and with law enforcement”, said Mark Kornegay, CRO of Omnigo Software, in an official statement.

According to the company, its technologies are used by all Las Vegas Strip casinos and by 65 per cent of the Canadian gaming market.

The Gaming Inspection and Co-ordination Bureau (DICJ) also indicated that under the current gaming law, gaming concessionaires have the obligation to “install in gaming areas or rooms, electronic surveillance equipment as a measure of protection and security for people and property”. Such equipment has to be of “international standard” and approved by the gaming watchdog.