Kazakhstan Pilots Biometric Checks in Gambling Sector
Kazakhstan has launched a pilot programme using biometric identity checks in the gambling industry, aiming to strengthen anti-fraud measures and boost player protection. The initiative integrates facial recognition and AI tools to improve compliance, transparency, and responsible gaming standards.
State-Level Push for Stronger Controls
The pilot is being run in partnership between the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and Biometric.Vision, following its unveiling at the Digital Bridge international forum. Kazakhstan plans to use face biometrics and AI to verify user identity in real time, helping prevent underage access, fraud, and unauthorized play. The broader goal is to embed biometric safeguards across regulated gambling platforms, making verification more automated and robust.
According to officials, the system also aims to detect suspicious behaviour patterns and flag self-excluded individuals attempting to re-enter. Project leaders believe successful execution could pave the way for full rollout across both online and land-based operations.
Baurzhan Rapikov, a representative from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports:
“This agreement marks a new stage in the digitalization of the social sphere. We want our industries to develop on time and in full alignment with the principles of transparency and social responsibility. The pilot with Biometric.Vision will introduce a modern service that will serve as an effective tool for safeguarding citizens.”
Implications for Operators and Compliance
For gambling operators and regulators, this pilot signals a shift toward more proactive enforcement. If adopted industry-wide, biometric checks could become a standard requirement, influencing KYC, AML, and player onboarding processes. Operators may need to invest in biometric systems and integrate new API modules for identity verification.
Some analysts note the move mirrors broader digital identity trends in finance and fintech in Kazakhstan. The government’s push for modernization aims to link gambling oversight with national strategies for transparency, data protection, and governance.
Alibek Narimbaev, CEO and founder of Biometric.Vision:
“We are convinced that biometric and AI technologies should not only make people’s daily lives easier, but also help address major social challenges. The new service will enable real-time verification of citizens’ status, minimizing risks and ensuring fairness in the gambling industry.”
The pilot may set a precedent for neighboring markets watching Kazakhstan’s regulatory experiment. As biometric verification gains ground in regulated sectors, gambling could emerge as a critical proving ground for identity tech in iGaming.
