Melilla to Host National Police Conference on Online Gaming Identity Theft

Melilla is set to host a significant conference organized by the National Police focusing on identity theft in the online gaming sector. Jesús Martínez, Director General of Innovation and Technology of Melilla, announced that the event will take place on June 12th and 13th.

Addressing Identity Theft in Online Gaming

The primary goal of these sessions is to clarify the identity theft protocol, a collaborative effort between the National Police, the Tax Agency, the DGOJ (Directorate General for Gambling Regulation), and gaming operators. This initiative aims to address the confusion and challenges faced by individuals affected by fraud in the online gaming world.

“Previously, those affected were much more lost when they saw something didn’t add up in their tax returns,” Martínez noted, highlighting the importance of the clarified protocol.

Many instances of fraud come to light when individuals receive their tax information in the spring, revealing unexpected winnings from games they never participated in. “They tell you that you have won 1,500 euros, and you have never played,” Martínez explained.

Melilla’s Strategic Importance

Melilla’s selection as the conference location is no coincidence. The city holds strategic importance in the gaming sector due to its favorable tax advantages, comparable to those of Ceuta. Currently, 16 operators, out of approximately 70 operating in Spain, are based in Melilla, contributing 20% of the local GDP and providing over 400 jobs. Martínez emphasized, “Here you are going to pay half the taxes than in another place,” encouraging more operators to consider Melilla as their base.

Combating Fraud with Technology and Regulation

Efforts to combat fraud extend beyond legal frameworks. The focus is also on leveraging artificial intelligence and biometric verification to prevent fraudulent activities. Gaming operators, facing significant penalties from the DGOJ, are highly motivated to prevent fraud. Martínez also cautioned against illegal gaming in jurisdictions like Curacao or San Javier, where regulations are lax.

“Where nothing is controlled. Neither the age, nor the bank accounts that there is no money laundering, nor the prohibited, nor the limits,” he warned.

Investing in Training and Expertise

Training is another critical component. Melilla is promoting specialized programs to train professionals in digital fraud and responsible gaming. One such program, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense, aims to retrain military personnel aged 35 to 45 as technology specialists. “It is what the Operators demand most,” Martínez stated.

Increased Detection, Not Increased Fraud

Martínez clarified that identity theft in online gaming is not necessarily on the rise. Instead, increased detection is the key factor. “Now it is detected more because before it did not come to light,” he explained.

Key Takeaways

• National Police conference in Melilla focuses on online gaming identity theft.
• Clarified identity theft protocol aims to assist fraud victims.
• Melilla’s strategic importance due to tax advantages.
• Emphasis on AI, biometric verification, and professional training to combat fraud.
• Increased detection, not necessarily increased fraud, is the current trend.