Interview with WLA President on effective certification for gaming and betting

Digitalization has advanced greatly over the past decade. What can we expect from the new iteration of the WLA Security Control Standard to be released this October?

Our industry is highly innovative. If we consider the tremendous evolution of our operations in recent years and the changes we’ve seen in how we develop and deliver our products, it’s clear we have kept on the cutting edge of technology – and must remain diligent in doing so.

The global explosion in online/omnichannel offerings is a case in point. The pandemic’s impact compelled us to adapt many of our processes and deploy technologies effectively so that we could continue to function and prosper, and I’m proud of the progress we achieved while overcoming incredible barriers.

In line with our new strategic plan, we are “improving, growing and maturing” our existing certification programs with the aim of continuing to support our members as their needs evolve.

The work of the WLA Security and Risk Management Committee (SRMC) to maintain our security standard is crucial and has never been more pertinent, and I appreciate their hard work. The next iteration, which updates risk mitigating controls, will be especially significant given the new cyber threats that loom over today’s landscape.

Learn more about the WLA SCS:2024 iteration here.

Ensuring secure operations that protect data privacy are key to instilling and maintaining public trust in our industry. How does certification with the WLA Security Control Standard assist our members in achieving this?

The WLA Security Control Standard is based on the international ISO/IEC 27001, Information security management systems (ISMS)-Requirements, which outlines the requirement for organizations to identify, assess, and treat information security risks. The SRMC IT and risk management experts built on the above-mentioned international standard to develop the only global standard for lottery and sports betting operators – so it’s a thorough process that provides guidance and ultimately helps instill confidence in providers and our industry as a whole.

The SRMC follows technology trends and works closely with our members to understand the risks they face in their daily operations, in physical retail outlets and online. Member feedback is a key part of the ongoing maintenance of the standard, which we update every four years. The standard comprises comprehensive controls for all organizations, lottery operators, gaming system suppliers and operators, as well as for multijurisdictional games.

These cover everything from personnel training and security of physical premises, to the production process of products, such as instant scratch tickets, and equipment used in lottery draws, as well as operations systems, and more.  

Find out more about our risk management activities.

How significant is it for lottery and sports betting operators to ensure responsible gaming while raising funds for good causes, and how does WLA assist?

It’s essential to the success of our industry – and to our ultimate goal of raising funds for good causes – to ensure responsible gaming (RG). Responsible play protects consumers and helps maintain public trust. These are vital components to any fruitful industry and especially key to ours.

As with the diligent SRMC, the WLA Corporate Social Responsibility Committee (CSRC) has been hard at work analyzing, growing and improving the WLA’s RG certification process. The newest development is a strategic partnership with DigitalRG.com that will allow WLA members to utilize an innovative and robust digital platform to create and submit their certification submissions online. The system provides guidance and structure and streamlines the process for all levels of certification and recertification. Additionally, expert help is available at different stages of the process.

Find out more about the new RG certification platform here.

As we approach the World Lottery Summit 2024 in Paris, what can attendees expect and what are you looking forward to the most at your last WLS as President of WLA?

The World Lottery Summit is the premier opportunity for the global lottery and sports betting community to gather in one place, catch up with colleagues and grow individual networks. We also have the chance to participate in the onsite tradeshow, which provides an in-depth look at the latest technologies and solutions while providing an active forum for discussion and sharing of best practices.

On the business program side, we can expect expert speakers who will address key focus areas of our sector and provide case studies that can be applicable to members’ individual challenges and to our industry as a whole. And, I’m looking forward to sharing more about the new strategic plan and the fresh focus it brings to the vital importance of the WLA.

On a personal note, WLS 2024 will be especially meaningful for me. The past six years serving as President have truly been an honor, and I’m proud to have served in this role. I’m especially pleased about several accomplishments that have been achieved during this time:

• Development of a strategic plan for WLA
• Increased North American lottery membership in WLA
• Empowerment and diversification of the four strategic WLA committees

And finally, I’d like to think of my legacy as the establishment and growth of WILL – Women in Lottery Leadership. Working with others to expand this vital program, designed to bring the best and brightest to the table, is truly satisfying, and I look forward to the ongoing maturity and expansion of opportunities for the talented women in our industry throughout the world.

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