Massachusetts Weighs Multi-Factor Authentication for Online Sports Betting

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is considering a new rule that might make all online sports betting accounts in the state use multi-factor authentication (MFA). The commission’s meeting on August 29 showed they are worried about keeping data safe and making sure people gamble responsibly on the state’s growing sports betting market.

MGC Chair Advocates for MFA to Shield Financial Information

At the meeting, MGC Chair Jordan Maynard spoke up for bringing in MFA as a way to make user accounts safer. He pointed out that online sports betting accounts are often connected to users’ bank accounts and debit cards, so it is important to put in place stronger safety measures like MFA to protect people’s financial information.

Commissioner Eileen O’Brien backed the possible mandate saying that requiring MFA could help maintain responsible gaming standards. She noted that MFA might stop unauthorized access by minors who could get hold of a verified user’s phone. By putting in place another security step, MFA could block people trying to get into an account that does not belong to them.

However, some commission members doubt the need for the introduction of MFA. Commissioner Brad Hill voiced worries about forcing MFA on all users. He pointed out that people can already choose to use it if they want. He thinks users should decide for themselves if they want this extra security measure on their accounts.

MGC Must Choose Between Competing MFA Models Amid Leadership Changes

The commission did not make a final decision. They plan to ask licensed sports betting operators in Massachusetts what they think about the proposed MFA rule. If they go ahead with the mandate, the MGC will pick between two existing MFA models. One model now used in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Iowa, calls for MFA once every two weeks on each device. The other model, which Ohio is thinking of introducing, would need MFA every time someone logs in.

This discussion comes on the backdrop of the MGC experiencing shifts in its top ranks. Bruce Band, who is currently the director of sports betting, joined his final complete MGC session on August 29. Band has been part of the commission since 2014 and brought a wealth of regulatory know-how.

He has played a key role in launching many casinos in New Jersey and Massachusetts. Chair Maynard applauded Band’s commitment dubbing him a “walking legend” among regulators. As the MGC weighs how to put MFA into action, the result could affect how people use online sports betting websites in Massachusetts.