GMB - What did Gaming Associates bring to BiS SiGMA Americas?
Dr. Aftab Rizvi - Gaming Associates is a testing laboratory that offers certification services for online gaming operators, as well as cybersecurity testing and certification. This is an essential component for any online business, especially in the gaming sector.
Brazil is opening up its online gambling market with new regulations, so it is a great place to be. We had meetings with regulators, operators, software providers... the whole ecosystem is here under one roof.
SiGMA did an excellent job of bringing everyone together in one place, allowing us to talk and understand the challenges - which are many, especially in emerging markets. And the only way to overcome them is by collaborating.
Did you use BiS SiGMA to network, expand relationships and also for business?
Exactly. We have been in the online game testing industry for over 30 years. I was the first to conduct online game testing in Australia. After that, we operated in Europe, then in North America, especially in Canada, and now we are focused on emerging markets such as Brazil.
We already have a presence here, clients and work closely with the regulator. Our goal is to ensure that this industry grows with the best possible standards.
What is your opinion on the alliances between operators, content providers and payment companies in the development of the market?
They are essential components. Everyone needs to work together to take the industry to the next level. Regulators, operators, content providers and payment providers are all doing their part to ensure that the market develops in a fair and sustainable way.
How is Gaming Associates using emerging technologies, such as AI, to improve its testing services?
Today, AI is indispensable. It is impossible to live without it, especially in the industry we operate in. Companies are always looking for new technologies to provide the best experience for players – and to ensure security.
AI is a game-changer. I would even say that in the next two to three years we will see very disruptive transformations. There are many new things coming, and all of them are driven by artificial intelligence.
What would be the main message that Gaming Associates wants to convey?
My main message is: we need to embrace new technologies. At Gaming Associates, we are using technology trends to ensure more efficient and secure systems. Security is paramount in the online gaming industry.
And the same AI-based systems that protect can also be used by hackers, so it is essential to stay one step ahead. That's why, in addition to our traditional testing and certification services, such as ISO 27001, we are now offering an important differentiator: threat intelligence.
This feature allows us to “scan” the dark web, where a lot of sensitive information about companies is traded. I often say that today, hackers often don't even need to break into a system — they simply log in, because the credentials are already available on the dark web. That's why we advocate not only specific compliance, but a culture of continuous compliance. Security needs to be present from the conception of products, from the design.
Why is Brazil so important to Gaming Associates?
Brazil is extremely relevant because there are many operators entering the market now. There are 220 million inhabitants. With the beginning of official licenses, international operators are arriving and need technical compliance and security.
That's where our experience of over 30 years comes in, which can add a lot of value. We have been recognized by operators, integrators and regulators, and we are committed to supporting this market in the best possible way.
What are the plans for 2025?
We are all set. Very excited! We want to see this industry grow and collaborate even more with operators, gaming and software providers, integrators and, most importantly, with the regulator.
Source: Exclusive GMB
