The American Gaming Association has released an updated version of its Best Practices for Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Guide, designed to help casinos and gaming operators strengthen their defenses against financial crimes. The new edition reflects changes in technology, evolving criminal tactics, and updated regulatory expectations across the gaming sector.
The latest guide places greater emphasis on Know Your Customer procedures and more detailed guidance for filing Suspicious Activity Reports. A major addition is a comprehensive section on risk assessments, giving operators a clearer framework for identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating potential exposure to money laundering. The guide also expands its focus on digital trends, including online gaming, digital wallets, and cryptocurrency transactions, all of which have become more prominent targets for criminal activity.
Another key update is the inclusion of new fraud typologies and red flags that front-line employees can use to detect suspicious behavior. The guide also addresses the links between human trafficking and money laundering, a growing concern in the gaming industry and beyond.
The AGA stressed that strong anti-money laundering practices are essential not just for protecting casinos and their customers but also for maintaining the integrity of the broader U.S. financial system. It is encouraging operators and suppliers to use the updated material to review and improve their internal compliance programs as the industry continues to evolve.
Since the previous version of the guide was issued in 2022, the U.S. gaming landscape has changed significantly, with more than 1,000 land-based casinos now operating and widespread legalization of sports betting and iGaming. This growth has heightened the need for sophisticated anti-money laundering strategies and closer cooperation between the industry, regulators, and law enforcement.
Industry experts believe the revised guide will help casinos tighten internal controls, enhance transaction monitoring, and improve training programs for staff on how to spot potential money laundering activities. As gaming companies face increasingly complex financial environments, the updated anti-money laundering guide is expected to play a critical role in helping the industry adapt to emerging threats and regulatory demands.
