Bangladesh Central Bank Requires Banks to Enhance Online Gambling Monitoring Using AI

The Bangladesh Central Bank has required banks to strengthen the monitoring of transactions related to online gambling using AI and to immediately notify law enforcement agencies upon detection of violations.

What the New Directive Requires

The Bangladesh Central Bank has issued a directive that instructs all banks and financial institutions in the country to:

• enhance surveillance of transactions linked to online gambling,
• use artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to detect suspicious operations,
• take immediate action in case of suspicion and notify law enforcement authorities,
• raise customer awareness about the dangers of online gambling,
• comply with the new “Cybersecurity Decree 2025.”

Monitoring Merchant Activity

The Central Bank also stated that all registered merchants cooperating with banks must provide accurate business information and operate only within their declared area. This is important for ensuring transparency and preventing the use of false data in illegal activities.

Immediate Action Upon Detection of Violations

If a client or merchant is found to be involved in online gambling, banks are required to:

1. promptly take the necessary measures,
2. report the incident to law enforcement authorities without delay.

This strictness is driven by a growing number of social and criminal issues caused by online gambling.

Table: Key Requirements from the Central Bank

Conclusion

Banks and financial institutions in Bangladesh are required to immediately begin implementing the Central Bank’s directives.

The combination of AI, increased oversight, and active customer engagement aims to eliminate threats associated with online gambling.