Deep technologies for responsible gambling: A narrative review of policies and implementation strategies

Deep technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and behavioural analytics, have emerged as promising tools to address complex social challenges. However, their integration into leisure activities, particularly online gambling, has raised concerns over the enhancement of user engagement, which might promote problem gambling behaviours. This review aimed to map how deep technologies intersect with responsible gambling regulations across jurisdictions.

A qualitative scoping review was conducted to synthesise evidence from academic literature, legal and regulatory frameworks, and relevant grey literature. A comparative analysis was performed across key jurisdictions, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, Malta, and selected non-European countries.

The review identified very few formal legal instruments that explicitly regulate the use of deep technologies in responsible gambling. The European Union Artificial Intelligence Act introduces binding requirements for high-risk AI systems, including those deployed in gambling, representing a pioneering step toward technology-specific regulation. In contrast, regulatory frameworks beyond Europe were generally non-binding or largely absent, with innovation primarily driven by operators acting voluntarily in the absence of legal mandates.

This analysis underscores persistent gaps in legal oversight and advocates for a shift toward proactive, ethics-based governance models that integrate technological accountability and robust consumer protections. Overall, the findings suggest that regulatory frameworks must not only keep pace with rapid technological innovation but also prioritise prevention through enforceable, transparent, and harmonised policies across jurisdictions.