Veikkaus, the Finnish exclusive gambling operator, has announced that starting from January 1, 2024, players will be required to provide identification when purchasing the popular Ässä or Casino lottery scratchcards. This mandatory identification measure for scratch games follows the introduction of similar checks for coupon games, such as Lotto and Eurojackpot, which were implemented earlier in 2023.
Ville Venojärvi, director of Veikkaus lottery games, stated that the conditions for the identification of scratch cards are favorable due to the large customer base already familiar with the identification process for coupon games. The identification process will enable the operator to pay lottery winnings directly to the customer’s online or bank account, a practice already in place for coupon games. However, scratchcards still do not offer this facility, so lottery winnings may be redeemed by players after their identification information is entered into the sales terminal for a potential match. This transition process will be in effect until the end of 2024.
In addition to the identification requirement, the new measure will offer additional opportunities for players with losing scratchcards. Players will be able to submit all lotteries with no winnings for additional draws. The new drawing schedule will now offer five EUR1,000 prizes daily, providing more excitement to scratch card players.
Furthermore, the identification process will facilitate the inclusion of scratchcards in the scope of gaming management tools to combat problem gambling and prevent risky gambling behaviors. Ville Venojärvi emphasized that Veikkaus is one of the first game companies globally to require identification for both digital and physical channels, including scratch cards, in an effort to prevent gaming disadvantages, strengthen age limit monitoring, and build a safer gaming environment for everyone.
This move is part of Veikkaus’ ongoing efforts to reduce gambling harm and ensure responsible gaming practices. The new measures will apply to both physical and digital channels, including scratch cards and coupon games, and aim to provide added security and oversight for players participating in these gambling activities. Overall, the mandatory identification checks for scratch games are intended to improve the safety and integrity of the gambling experience for all players.
