Finland’s state-owned operator Veikkaus is introducing identification checks into its scratch card sales.
Identification for coupon games such as Lotto and Eurojackpot came into effect last May, but scratch cards such as Ässä and Casino lottery will also now require checks from January 1 next year.
Veikkaus said the winnings of lotteries bought in 2023 can be claimed and players can participate in their additional draws until the end of 2024.
The introduction of ID checks has also led to the creation of a new additional raffle for the scratch cards from the beginning of 2024. All such lotteries with no winnings can be entered into the daily additional lottery at points of sale, with the additional draw only previously available for Ässä and Casino values once a week.
“The conditions for identification of scratch cards are good because we have a very large customer base with the identification of coupon games, said Ville Venojärvi, director of Veikkaus’ lottery games.
“Identification is already a familiar operating method to our customers.
“The new additional draw offers excitement to scratch card players more often than before. Participating in the new additional lottery is easier and we respond to customers' wishes with the reform.”
Venojärvi added: “Veikkaus is one of the first game companies in the world where playing both digital and physical channels, including scratch cards, requires identification.
“With the help of identification, we prevent gaming disadvantages, strengthen age limit monitoring and build a safer gaming environment for everyone.”
