Regional Sales Director tasked with fostering existing customer relationships and driving sales growth
Continent 8 Technologies, the award-winning provider of managed hosting, connectivity, cloud and security solutions to the global online gambling industry, continues to drive growth with the appointment of Khaled El-Din as Regional Sales Director.
Based in the UK, Khaled joins Continent 8’s global sales team as it continues to enter new regulated markets around the world, a move that is increasing its addressable audience and customer base.
Khaled is a highly experienced sales specialist and joins the global IT business from swcomms where he was Sales Manager. He has also held sales roles at Solar Communications and Chartered Developments. His knowledge of infrastructure, connectivity and hosting solutions, plus his experience working with large organisations to determine their needs and creating bespoke solutions for them, makes him perfectly suited to Continent 8.
In his new role, he has been tasked with managing and amplifying existing customer relationships, as well as supporting the overall sales division with driving new revenue growth across core regulated markets including Europe and the Americas.
Nick Nally, Chief Revenue Officer at Continent 8 Technologies, said: “Khaled is a fantastic addition to our global sales team, and we look forward to benefiting from his experience, skills, and commitment to customer satisfaction, as we look to better support existing customers and connect with new ones.
“With Khaled in the team, we can keep driving awareness of our solutions and services among those not currently working with Continent 8, whilst doubling down on the support we provide to those that are.”
Khaled El-Din, Regional Sales Director at Continent 8 Technologies, added: “This is a very exciting time to be joining Continent 8 as demand for its managed hosting, connectivity, cloud and security solutions is on the rise.
“Continent 8 works with many of the biggest names in the industry, and it’s an honour to be working closely with the team, as well as an impressive collection of customers that trust in our solutions and our people. I am looking forward to playing a part in helping operators and suppliers access the infrastructure they need to succeed as the gambling market continues to grow at pace, globally.”
Jeremie Kanter, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Continent 8 Technologies
The global gambling industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Government policies and ever-evolving stringent regulations continue to shape the undulating landscape for operators. Responsible gambling is not limited to the protection of vulnerable gamblers. With so much money and sensitive personal information being exchanged online, gambling sites have become a hot target for bad actors; therefore, it is essential that the industry takes cybersecurity seriously.
As quickly as technology advances, so do methods of hacking and scamming. Online gambling companies need to have many layers of defence to protect themselves and their customers. Cybersecurity, backed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the gaming environment from a multitude of threats whilst protecting players and transactions and strengthening operators’ responsible gambling obligations. Cybersecurity measures ensure online sports betting platforms effectively enhance the integrity of their platform and demonstrate their commitment to fair play, transparency, and player safety.
One of the most critical aspects of cybersecurity in the online sports betting industry is protecting sensitive information. Cybersecurity solutions shield customer data from breaches with advanced encryption techniques and intrusion detection systems. AI-driven security systems can identify and mitigate potential threats in real time, ensuring a robust defence against data breaches and cyber attacks. This not only secures player information but also safeguards gambling operators’ trustworthiness and brand integrity.
Another essential consideration for operators is preventing fraud and taking anti-money laundering (AML) measures. The gambling industry is particularly susceptible to fraud, with hackers constantly devising new scams to exploit vulnerabilities. Robust cybersecurity measures underpinned by machine learning algorithms analyse vast amounts of information, including transaction records, customer information, and other financial data, to identify suspicious activity, enabling operators to intervene promptly. By employing effective cybersecurity measures, operators can protect their players from these types of illegal activities whilst minimising reputational damage.
Regulatory compliance is not just a legal requirement but also a means of building trust with players and regulatory authorities. By prioritising cybersecurity, iGaming operators can ensure they are not only following regulatory requirements, but they proactively avoid any potential legal or financial risks. Robust cybersecurity measures and AI systems help operators manage compliance by automating reporting, monitoring transactions, and ensuring adherence to data protection laws.
Part of an operator’s responsible gambling obligations include safeguarding players from addiction. How can the deployment of cybersecurity and AI-driven technology help in this regard? AI and machine learning algorithms can analyse player activity patterns and behaviours, identifying early signs and markers of harm. It can also track time spent gambling and prompt players to take a break. This information can be used to intervene and offer support to players who may be at risk. AI-driven chatbots provide real-time assistance to players seeking information and resources on responsible gambling. These chatbots can provide guidance and support and direct players to relevant resources when they exhibit risky or erratic behaviour. Offering immediate interaction with customers in need reinforces the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming and player wellbeing.
The gambling industry faces unique cybersecurity challenges that require a comprehensive and proactive approach. Responsible gambling is not just a legal requirement but a compass and an ethical obligation of the gambling industry. The importance of cybersecurity in the online sports betting industry cannot be overstated. Embracing a security-first mindset is essential for the gambling industry to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world where the stakes are high.
Continent 8 can play a pivotal role in helping online gaming operators promote responsible gambling. By implementing advanced cybersecurity measures powered by AI-driven interventions, we can add significant value to operators, ensuring a safe and secure gaming environment while fostering responsible gambling practices. This not only benefits players but also enhances the reputation and trustworthiness of the operator.
At the beginning of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, data hosting and security specialist Continent 8 Technologies issues a wake-up call to the online and land-based gaming sectors
Global technology and data solutions company Continent 8 Technologies, a provider of specialised infrastructure and cybersecurity services to the world’s biggest betting and gaming companies, says that the industry is facing an unprecedented threat from a rising tide of cyber attacks.
The stark warning comes at the start of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which marks its 20th year in October 2023, and as the global land-based and online industry once again gathers in Nevada for the annual G2E Las Vegas exhibition and conference.
Founded in 1998 and celebrating 25 years of business in 2023, Continent 8 has 100 data centre locations across four continents, delivering a wide range of technology infrastructure and connectivity solutions to the biggest organisations in the industry, via a single interconnected network.
Michael Tobin, Founder and CEO of Continent 8 Technologies, said: “In the 25 years since Continent 8 was founded, the threat to the data, infrastructure and digital security of companies in the betting and gaming industry has never been higher.
“The scale and sophistication of these attacks is increasing year on year, so it’s critically important that organisations take a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, protecting themselves from the mix of complex threats facing businesses in today’s world. What’s also important is ensuring your business is compliant, meeting stringent regulatory requirements across different markets.”
Patrick Gardner, Managing Partner of C8 Secure, a Continent 8 company, added: “With the average cost of a data breach reaching well into millions, and the gaming industry being a prime target, it’s crucial now more than ever for companies to bolster their cybersecurity measures. Both the online and land-based sectors must remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring protection of their data and infrastructure against increasingly evolving threats.”
Continent 8 will be on stand #4235 at G2E Las Vegas, which takes place at The Venetian Expo from 9-12 October, marking the beginning of Cybersecurity Awareness Month with an event-wide campaign highlighting the rising threat against the global betting and gaming sector.
Set up a meeting with the team in Vegas here