ZEAL Network SE has confirmed that it is now using the AI-based identity verification technology of the Hamburg-based startup Nect to further modernise the protection of minors when playing the lottery.

ZEAL’s use of the new technology significantly facilitates new customer registration and further improves the existing level of player protection.

As part of its collaboration with the AI-based trust services provider, ZEAL is deploying Nect Ident, a fully automated identification based on artificial intelligence (AI). Within around two minutes, players can identify themselves independently via an app using an ID document and a selfie video. The integrated technology not only compares faces and checks documents, but also detects attempts at digital manipulation.

By using Nect Ident, ZEAL now not only ensures that players are of age, but can also detect fake profiles in good time. For example, the automatic identification makes it impossible to circumvent player blocks by using false identities.

“As a provider of online lotteries, youth protection is central and omnipresent for us. That’s why we place the highest value on using innovative technologies that make the registration process secure and transparent for both sides. We are delighted to have Nect at our side, a partner that specializes in developing technical innovations for a secure digital future. By using Nect Ident, we will be able to even better ensure that the players who register for our online offers really do meet the regulatory requirements for playing the lottery,” Helmut Becker, CEO of ZEAL, said.

“Youth control should be as simple and at the same time as safe as somehow possible. Both sides benefit from AI-based identification: Users can identify themselves independently and within a very short time, and companies can be sure that their new customers are really the people they claim to be. We are delighted to partner with ZEAL to modernize new customer registration for lottery play,” Benny Bennet Jürgens, CEO of Nect, said.