The system best known for creating winners has received a prize of its own.
Last week, the National Council on Problem Gaming issued a news release announcing that Pennsylvania’s iLottery platform has earned the distinguished Internet Compliance Assessment Program (iCAP) certification. Pennsylvania’s iLottery platform was developed and is managed by the Scientific Games Corporation.
“We congratulate the Pennsylvania Lottery and Scientific Games (both organizational members of NCPG) on achieving the iCAP certification,” said Keith Whyte, executive director of the NCPG. “Our rigorous assessment process provides the Lottery and Scientific Games with specific, actionable feedback to help better protect players and reduce problem gambling-related harm.”
The iCAP certification verifies that the Pennsylvania Lottery’s iLottery program complies with the National Council on Problem Gaming’s Internet Responsible Gaming Standards. That certification is considered perhaps the highest honor available for lottery programs.
Pennsylvania’s iLottery joins a select group of lottery systems with iCAP certification
Only a few lottery systems have been awarded iCAP certification. Pennsylvania’s iLottery now joins fellow state programs in Georgia, Kentucky and Michigan with the prestigious recognition.
Developed with the highest standards possible, iCAP is the first and only US-based online responsible gambling assessment program for lotteries.
“By working with Scientific Games, the Lottery team and responsible-gambling experts in the industry, we were able to take a deeper dive into our iLottery program’s Responsible Gambling Initiative and ensure we are doing the right thing,” said Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director Drew Svitko. “This certification is testimony of our commitment to ensure that we are providing iLottery players with responsible-gaming tools they need to manage their play responsibly.”
But just like with most gaming partnerships, all the involved parties deserve a share of the credit. The Scientific Games Corporation has also played a pivotal role, making a commitment to responsible gaming as well.
“We are passionate about healthy play and congratulate the Pennsylvania Lottery on its industry leadership to responsibly deliver entertaining digital lottery games to its players,” said Pat McHugh, Lottery Group chief executive for Scientific Games.
McHugh noted that Scientific Games supports NCPG’s efforts. He also encouraged its lottery customers to achieve responsible-gambling certifications such as iCAP. Scientific Games is a member of NCPG and other responsible-gaming organizations.
Furthermore, Scientific Games is among the first companies to be certified by the World Lottery Association as a Responsible Gaming Supplier and is the first US lottery supplier to join the Global Lottery Monitoring System, which monitors the integrity of sports betting worldwide.
Group efforts have led to positive changes in the lottery system
The work of lottery providers, platform operators and the NCPG has led to significant progress in regulated and responsible gaming.
NCPG’s efforts to promote ethical gaming standards have had a wide-reaching impact. They’ve been incorporated into legislation, regulation and platforms in states that have legalized internet lottery games.
Pennsylvania’s iLottery is just the latest to earn some recognition for its standards. And all involved should take a bow.