DAZN Bet's View on Modern KYC Practices in iGaming

DAZN Bet, a notable player in the iGaming sector, is adapting to changes brought by the European Union's Anti-Money Laundering (AML) package. As the industry anticipates these AML reforms, Bogdan Ursu, Head of KYC at DAZN Bet, underscores the evolving role of Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, focusing on a more streamlined and risk-based approach.

Continuous Identity Verification

Under the new AML regulations, identity verification evolves into a continuous process. Ursu states that once a player’s identity is verified, there's no need for repeated checks unless specific changes prompt re-evaluation. "The ongoing process concerns understanding changes in risk profile through indicators like new fraud signals or changes in player activity and information," he explains.

DAZN Bet's strategy is to maintain the integrity of player relationships without imposing unnecessary friction. Ongoing monitoring mainly involves Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and AML processes, adjusting actions as risks surface.

Navigating EU AML Package Requirements

According to Ursu, the new EU AML package won't overhaul established practices for mature operators. Existing controls like player identity verification, sanctions screening, and risk assessment are already foundational. "The key difference lies in achieving a more uniform European framework for applying and demonstrating these controls," says Ursu, reflecting on DAZN Bet's preparedness.

The emphasis is on building an integrated framework that seamlessly aligns existing controls, thus minimizing the impact of new local requirements on operations.

Role of Automation in Verification

Automation significantly enhances KYC and AML workflows, enabling operators to manage complex scenarios without unnecessarily expanding teams. DAZN Bet combines document checks, biometric verification, and database screening to streamline processes. Ursu highlights, "Automation reduces manual tasks, directing focus to complex cases where human judgement remains crucial."

Crucially, automation facilitates scalability, but human oversight is essential in ambiguous situations such as potential matches in sanctions lists.

Balancing Security and Player Experience

The tension between security and smooth player experience often surfaces in KYC discussions. Ursu challenges the notion that rigorous verification deters customers. Instead, he contends that a well-designed, automated, and risk-based verification process maintains player conversion without unnecessary friction.

"Our goal is to ensure precise checks for the right players at the right time, thus enhancing rather than hindering the overall user experience," he adds.

Flexible Verification Frameworks

DAZN Bet aims for a robust universal framework adaptable to specific local regulations. Ursu believes that while the EU AML package provides a strong baseline, operators must still navigate local regulatory nuances.

"Employing a common core framework complemented by local policies allows us to meet jurisdictional needs without duplicating efforts," Ursu explains.

Future of Onboarding

With AML reforms progressing and the EU Digital Identity Wallet emerging, DAZN Bet envisions a future with less friction in onboarding processes. Ursu sees potential in minimizing redundant identity checks, using verified digital identities to simplify processes.

He predicts, "The focus will be on integrating identity, AML, and fraud controls, allowing automation to handle routine checks while directing intervention only where necessary." This evolution promises a smoother experience for low-risk players, optimizing both security and convenience.

SBC Summit, taking place in Lisbon from 29 September to 1 October 2026, will gather 40,000 industry professionals to explore these themes. It's a significant event for networking and learning, amid a backdrop of cutting-edge industry developments.