Cameras assist venue staff in identifying barred players entering the gaming area by using facial recognition technology. Additionally, the system alerts staff if someone remains in the gaming room for more than 3 hours. Licensed gaming venues must adhere to both of these regulations.
EZYSWEEP
F.A.Q
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cameras and facial recognition technology used for?
What is Facial Recognition?
Facial recognition technology is capable of detecting human faces in pictures or videos, verifying if the same individual appears in two separate images, and searching for a specific face within a database of known photos.
Do you know my name?
The venue remains unaware of your name or any personal information unless you are an excluded individual who has agreed to share your details with the Ministry of Health's CONCERN database.
What is a Room Sweep?
The Harm Prevention and Minimisation Amendment Regulations 2023 outline specific procedures for conducting room sweeps in Class 4 gambling venues. Gaming rooms must be checked by venue staff three times an hour to observe any potential signs of gambling harm. Staff are required to identify any player who has remained in the gaming room across nine consecutive sweeps, typically indicating continuous play for three hours.
Is my photo stored along with Room Sweeps?
Images that help venue staff conduct gaming room sweeps are deleted within 48 hours. If venue staff detect indications of gambling harm associated with a player, they are required to discuss this with the concerned player and document it in an incident report. This report is stored for 3 years as mandated by gambling regulations and will include your photo and any information you provide during the conversation.
What are the purposes and limitations of implementing cameras and facial recognition technology?
Facial recognition technology should be restricted to its designated uses. In gaming rooms, for instance, cameras are used primarily to help venue staff identify banned or excluded individuals entering the gaming areas and to carry out comprehensive room sweeps to detect potential signs of gambling harm and ensure compliance.
Is my photo shared with other venues?
No.
Will my photo from a room sweep be given to the local authorities?
No.
What if I prefer the venue not to use my photo for room sweeps?
Entering the gaming room signifies your implied consent. If you prefer not to be photographed, kindly refrain from entering the gaming room.
What is implied consent?
Implied consent refers to permission that is not explicitly stated but is inferred from an individual's actions. For instance, your decision to enter the gaming room implies consent. Be aware that there are signs indicating the use of cameras with facial recognition technology operating.
What are the main changes to Harm Minimisation and Prevention Regulations 2023?
The Harm Prevention and Minimisation Amendment Regulations 2023 have brought several significant changes for Class 4 gambling venues in New Zealand. Aimed at improving the detection and handling of problem gambling, these changes ensure that venues adhere to updated standards. Among these updates are detailed guidelines for room sweeps or inspections and ATM cash withdrawals.