The World Game Protection Conference is set to return to Las Vegas from March 11-13, promising vital insights into the casino industry’s evolving challenges. The annual event will convene at the Rio Las Vegas, drawing professionals to tackle emerging risks, scams, and compliance issues facing casinos globally.
A Legacy of Vigilance
Since its inception in 2006, the World Game Protection Conference has stood as a cornerstone for educating casino employees and executives. The event delivers a mix of training sessions and general discussions aimed at uncovering vulnerabilities and developing strategies to address them. Its annual focus on scams culminates in a much-anticipated voting session to identify the top casino scams of the year, a highlight in gaming industry coverage.
“We aim to inspire fresh thinking,” said conference founder Willy Allison. “It’s not just about catching thieves but fostering ethical and compliant practices within the industry. Media scrutiny is constant, and reputational risks are high. This event is about adapting to the times and embracing innovative approaches.”
Keynote Speakers to Shape Discussions
The conference will kick off with two highly anticipated keynote addresses. Retired Las Vegas gaming attorney Anthony Cabot will explore the ethics of the casino industry, emphasizing areas under regulatory scrutiny such as money laundering and the role of illegal bookmakers.
“Anthony Cabot has written extensively on Chinese crime in casinos,” Allison said. “His insights into ethical decision-making will be invaluable, especially in an industry where compliance challenges persist.”
Christian Hunt, a former UK banking regulator and expert on human risk, will follow. Hunt’s keynote will delve into behavioural compliance, examining why employees break rules and how casinos can design systems that encourage ethical behaviour.
“In recent years, the financial impact of compliance breaches has far exceeded losses from cheating or fraud,” Allison explained. “Hunt’s perspective is critical for operators striving to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage.”
Addressing Compliance Gaps
Noncompliance remains a pressing concern for the casino sector. From money laundering to inadequate training on new regulations, the risks are vast and costly. Allison emphasised the importance of aligning every level of staff with compliance initiatives.
“Too often, the focus is on front-line staff while executives escape scrutiny,” he said. “We need consistent, top-to-bottom training. Executives bending rules or associating with questionable individuals pose significant risks.”
Citing high-profile cases such as Scott Sibella’s gaming license revocation, Allison highlighted the broader implications of lax oversight. “When leaders set the wrong example, it undermines the entire organisation,” he noted.
An Engaging Agenda Awaits
The three-day event promises a packed schedule, from training workshops to critical discussions on emerging threats. Beyond the keynote speeches, attendees can expect:
- Interactive Sessions: Real-world case studies on compliance failures and successes.
- Top Scam Rankings: A vote on the year’s most significant casino scams, a must-see for industry insiders.
- Networking Opportunities: A chance to exchange ideas with peers and industry leaders.
This year’s conference is expected to attract over 600 attendees, approaching record-breaking participation levels. The event’s blend of practical insights and forward-thinking dialogue ensures it remains a critical resource for the gaming industry.
Why This Conference Matters
The stakes in the casino industry have never been higher. With increasing regulatory scrutiny and complex compliance requirements, events like the World Game Protection Conference are essential for staying ahead. As casinos navigate these challenges, the focus on education and ethical leadership is more relevant than ever.
For attendees, the conference offers more than just knowledge—it’s a chance to be part of shaping a safer, more accountable industry.