Detecting the Invisible: Smarter Approaches to Affordability and Overspending

Session Title

AI in Gambling: Machine Learning & Risk Detection

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation

Start Date

26-5-2026 12:00 AM

Abstract

Traditional spend thresholds are a blunt tool for identifying gamblers at risk of spending beyond their means. Set too low, they flag the wrong people; set too high, they miss those most in need of support. This session presents Focal Research’s innovative affordability construct within the FocaL Adult Gambling Screen (FLAGS) — a behavioural scale and algorithm developed through research with over 10,000 EGM players across four countries and multiple operators. By focusing on player behaviour and decision-making rather than absolute spend, FLAGS offers operators and regulators a more accurate way to detect “invisible overspenders” who pose unique risks to themselves, communities, and the sector. Attendees will explore evidence from international trials, practical applications for host responsibility, and the potential for smarter detection tools to strengthen safer gambling and regulatory outcomes.

Author Bios

Tracy Schrans, Principal and Co-Founder of Focal Research, has conducted gambling research since 1989. Tracy has consulted with governments, industry, regulators, and players worldwide to set safer gambling standards for player protection and safer gambling evaluation, receiving international recognition in using data and technology to identify and assist at-risk gamblers.

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May 26th, 12:00 AM

Detecting the Invisible: Smarter Approaches to Affordability and Overspending

Traditional spend thresholds are a blunt tool for identifying gamblers at risk of spending beyond their means. Set too low, they flag the wrong people; set too high, they miss those most in need of support. This session presents Focal Research’s innovative affordability construct within the FocaL Adult Gambling Screen (FLAGS) — a behavioural scale and algorithm developed through research with over 10,000 EGM players across four countries and multiple operators. By focusing on player behaviour and decision-making rather than absolute spend, FLAGS offers operators and regulators a more accurate way to detect “invisible overspenders” who pose unique risks to themselves, communities, and the sector. Attendees will explore evidence from international trials, practical applications for host responsibility, and the potential for smarter detection tools to strengthen safer gambling and regulatory outcomes.