As the iGaming industry expands into new and increasingly complex markets, the stakes for cybersecurity, regulation and data privacy are higher than ever. Speaking with SiGMA, Phuong Ha, Regional Business Development Director at ECQ Group, shared his expertise on how iGaming operators can responsibly scale their businesses, particularly in Asia, while managing risk and building trust.
iGaming cybersecurity strategy as a core business priority
In regions where regulation is evolving and trust is still being earned, security is a foundation. Some of our customers see cybersecurity as even more important than banks, said Ha. They invest a lot more because they need to protect not just money but customer privacy and data integrity.
For iGaming operators, particularly those in payment and platform services, Ha identified three top concerns, regulation, compliance and data privacy. Its about protecting customer data and gaining trust, both from governments and players, he added.
This level of security goes beyond firewalls. We recommend both on-chain and off-chain analysis to identify vulnerabilities, especially when blockchain and smart contracts are involved, said Ha, referencing the increasing use of blockchain-based solutions in the sector.
Data protection and building better B2B partnerships
Data privacy is at the forefront of discussions at both iGaming and cybersecurity conferences. There are multiple data protection laws like GDPR in Europe but when you look at the core principles, theres a lot of overlap, Ha explained.
Rather than being overwhelmed by regulatory complexity, ECQ Group advocates a technology led approach to compliance. The differences in regulation can be solved through the right policies and technology, Ha noted.
This mindset also extends to building B2B trust. Partnerships thrive when theres transparency and data responsibility, he added. Operators that demonstrate compliance earn long-term credibility.
Emerging technologies reshaping the iGaming landscape
Ha also highlighted key tech trends that are actively reshaping the iGaming industry, with both promise and risk. Chief among them is blockchain, which is rapidly becoming a foundational layer for new gaming experiences. Many operators are integrating NFTs, digital wallets and smart contracts to enhance transparency and engagement. However, Ha issued a word of caution, There have been billions of dollars lost in recent hacks its not just blockchain itself, but the surrounding technologies that need attention.
He explained that blockchain security must be considered holistically. What we call on-chain and off-chain systems both need to be assessed. If you only secure one part of the infrastructure, vulnerabilities in the other can still be exploited. This comprehensive approach is particularly important when digital assets are involved, as both customer funds and reputations are at stake.
Another critical evolution is the growing adoption of cloud infrastructure, especially in mobile-first markets like Asia. Were seeing a shift from native apps to browser-based gaming using cloud services. It helps with compatibility across devices and operating systems, but cloud security is just as important, Ha said.
Cloud-based platforms support massive scalability, a key advantage in rapidly growing gaming ecosystems. However, Ha noted that security must evolve in parallel. Cloud infrastructure has matured a lot over the past five to seven years. There are strong standards and best practices in place. The real challenge is how well operators apply those practices to their own ecosystems.
Ha emphasised that while tools and compliance standards exist, the playing cards are in the hands of the operators. Its up to them to implement the right systems to protect their platforms and players with compliant iGaming cybersecurity strategy.
Join cybersecurity experts, regulators and iGaming leaders at the upcoming SiGMA EuroMed summit in Malta 01-03 September 2025. Learn how to secure your digital platforms, navigate compliance in emerging markets and leverage cutting-edge technologies without compromising trust. Dont miss your chance to future-proof your business in an evolving global landscape.
