4 min read
A gaming platform has to be secure, reliable and able to prove that its games and records are accurate. This article covers the main technical areas regulators and auditors typically review.
Game integrity
Games and random number generators should be tested and certified by recognised testing laboratories, and the versions running in production must match the certified versions. Keep a record of every game release and configuration change.
Security basics
- Encrypted connections (HTTPS/TLS) for all player and admin traffic
- Strong authentication, with two-factor login for staff and admin accounts
- Regular security updates for servers, frameworks and plugins
- Firewalls, protection against denial-of-service attacks and malware scanning
- Regular vulnerability scans and independent penetration tests
Data protection
Player identity documents, contact details and transaction data are sensitive personal information. Handle them in line with the Data Privacy Act of 2012: collect only what you need, encrypt it, restrict access and keep it only as long as required.
Reliability
Players expect the platform to be available, and regulators expect records to survive failures. Use monitored hosting, automatic backups stored in a separate location and a tested recovery plan. Know how long it would take to restore service and data after an incident.
Admin controls
The back office is a common weak point. Give each staff member a personal account with only the permissions they need, log every action and review access regularly, especially when staff leave.
Be audit-ready: keep the evidence
Auditors do not just read your policies; they ask for evidence. These practices make audits faster and less stressful.
Keep a system inventory
Maintain an up-to-date list of your servers, software, game providers, payment integrations and third-party services, with who is responsible for each one. Auditors often start here.
Document how data flows
Draw simple diagrams showing how player data and money move through your systems, from registration and deposits to gameplay and withdrawals. Include where data is stored and who can access it.
Log the right events
- Logins and failed login attempts for players and staff
- Changes to player accounts, balances and limits
- Game configuration changes and software releases
- Access to sensitive data and exports of reports
Protect logs from being edited or deleted and keep them for the required period.
Manage changes formally
Every change to the platform should have a ticket, an approval, a test record and a release note. This shows auditors that changes are controlled and gives your team a history to investigate problems.
Test and record your controls
Run regular backup restores, access reviews and security scans, and keep the results. A control that has never been tested is hard to defend in an audit.
Prepare an evidence folder
Keep policies, certificates, test reports, diagrams and review records in one organised place. When an audit request arrives, you can respond in days rather than weeks.
| Control | Evidence to keep | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Backups | Restore test records | Regularly, e.g. quarterly |
| Access reviews | Signed review lists, removed accounts | Regularly and when staff leave |
| Vulnerability scans | Scan reports and fixes | On a set schedule |
| Penetration tests | Report and remediation tracker | At least yearly or after major changes |
| Change control | Tickets, approvals, release notes | Every change |
Frequently asked questions
What do auditors check on a gaming platform?
Typically game integrity, security controls, data protection, reliability, admin access and evidence that controls are tested.
Why must production games match certified versions?
Certification applies to a specific version. Running a different version means the game is not covered by the certificate.
How long should logs be kept?
For the period required by your licence and applicable laws. Confirm the requirement with your compliance team.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Gaming rules in the Philippines change, so always confirm current requirements directly with PAGCOR and a qualified Philippine lawyer before you apply or launch.
