At SiGMA Central Europe 2025, the conversation on Stage 2 turned to one of the industry’s most complex frontiers, the ethics of AI in responsible gaming. During the panel “Ethical Maze: AI’s Role in Responsible Gaming,” moderated by Kris Galloway, Head of iGaming Product, Sumsub, panelists Stephen Aupy, Business Development Manager, Mindway AI and Niccolò Caramatti, Founder & CEO, Giochiamo.ai, explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping the boundaries of player protection. From detecting early signs of problematic behaviour to ensuring fair play, the panel examined both the promise and pitfalls of relying on AI to safeguard players while maintaining trust and transparency.
Opening the discussion, Niccolò Caramatti reflected on the Italian market’s evolving regulatory landscape. “Being Italian, I’m proud to say that the market is about to experience a huge change with the new licensing model. There’s a lot of hype around what AI can do but we’re only beginning to see its true potential.” he said.
Caramatti noted that progress takes time, “Action has already begun. It doesn’t happen overnight, but over the next year, I expect we’ll see major developments and they’ll likely expand into other sectors as well.”
Stephen Aupy emphasised how AI is transforming responsible gaming on a global scale. “AI has emerged as an absolute game changer. It’s modernising how we approach player protection, with some jurisdictions even mandating AI integration to identify and address gambling harms.” he said.
He noted that Italy’s November deadline for operators to comply with new standards marks a critical step forward. “It’s a busy time for the Italian market, but we can expect most other regions to follow suit. Regulators don’t always get it right at first, it’s a fine balance between monitoring player behaviour and protecting personal privacy.”
When asked whether the industry could realistically self-regulate, Aupy was candid, “Self-regulation doesn’t work very well. We need clear frameworks to ensure operators don’t cross ethical lines.”
Caramatti agreed, adding that regulation often arrives in response to misuse. “Rules are there to set limits,” he said. “Operators and regulators need ongoing dialogue to ensure mutual understanding. The more constant this conversation becomes, the smaller the gap between regulation and innovation.”
Aupy praised Brazil’s “steady pace” in mandating AI, calling it a potential model for other markets. “As time evolves, regulators will begin developing their own frameworks and systems,” he said.
Both speakers agreed that AI can strengthen the entire gaming ecosystem if applied responsibly. “When the regulator steps in to prevent abuse, they’re not limiting growth; they’re helping the market stay healthy. A sustainable system retains players longer,” said Caramatti.
Aupy added that in today’s fast-moving landscape, AI is no longer optional. “If you’re not using AI, you’re at a strategic disadvantage, your competitors already are,” he said. “Personalisation through AI is proving to be one of the most effective ways to support responsible gaming and build a sustainable player base.”
Caramatti concluded by stressing that a clear framework benefits everyone. “As long as operators act in line with regulatory expectations, there’s nothing to fear. AI gives operators the chance to improve the player experience without crossing ethical lines. I’m confident we’ll see even stronger collaboration ahead.”
As the iGaming industry embraces smarter, data-driven solutions, the ethical responsibilities surrounding AI will only deepen. The insights shared during SiGMA Central Europe 2025 made one thing clear, technology alone cannot guarantee responsible gaming. It’s the collaboration between operators and regulators that will determine whether AI becomes a guardian of player wellbeing or a new ethical challenge to solve.
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