The French National Gaming Authority (ANJ) has introduced a new algorithm to licensed operators aimed at improving the detection of excessive gambling behaviour. The tool is designed to strengthen early identification of at-risk players, as the regulator warns that existing monitoring systems are still largely insufficient.
Developed internally since 2024 and validated by a scientific committee, the system draws on data from accounts held with licensed operators such as Française des Jeux (FDJ) and PMU. The algorithm analyses 23 indicators, including financial movements, betting frequency and user activity over a six-month period.
ANJ data analyst coordinator Thomas Delafosse explained: “We also looked at the use of self-exclusion tools, a very strong indicator that the player has experienced difficulties.”
The system assigns a risk score across four categories, ranging from recreational players to clearly excessive gamblers. To evaluate its effectiveness, the ANJ used the Canadian Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI).
According to data presented by the ANJ, operators identified around 90,000 excessive gamblers in 2025. However, the regulator estimates the figure at more than 600,000 people, or 8.7% of all online account holders. These players alone generated €1.2bn ($1.4bn) in GGR, accounting for 60% of the sector’s total.
France’s gambling market generated a GGR of €14.1bn in 2025, according to figures published by the National Gaming Authority, with growth led by online sports betting, lotteries and casinos.
The ANJ said market revenue rose 3% year-on-year, placing France broadly in line with other major European markets. Online gambling revenue reached €2.62bn, up 8.5%, and accounted for 18.5% of total market revenue.
In its 2024–2026 strategic plan, the ANJ has made reducing the number of problem gamblers a central regulatory priority
