Gaming Exchange, Cybersecurity, and Latency in iGaming

Introduction

• Interview with Justin Koznet from Continent 8 on the GI Huddle Interview series.
• Main topics discussed: Gaming Exchange, use of data, cybersecurity.

Overview of Continent 8's Gaming Exchange

• Builds on Continent 8's global MPLS network for gaming (20+ years legacy).
• Private Internet for Gaming: No public internet surface, connecting regulated environments.
• Majority of B2B gaming operators are on the Continent 8 network.
• Designed to ensure low latency and quickest connectivity between customers.

Benefits of the Gaming Exchange

• Low Latency: Guarantees the fastest connection between endpoints.
• Premium Portal: Analytics tool to see data flows and partners interacted with.
• Cybersecurity Benefits:
  • Private internet reduces exposure to DDoS attacks.
  • Limits attack surface area.

Importance of Cybersecurity and DDoS Protection

• Financial Impact: Cost of being offline due to a DDoS attack can be significant (e.g., $170k/hour for a $1.5 billion/year company).
• Example: A customer faced a 22-hour attack, potentially costing $3.7 - $3.8 million.
• Indirect Costs: Reputation damage, distraction of resources, potential regulatory fines.

Explaining the Need for Cybersecurity to Companies

• Revenue Protection: Ensures connectivity and revenue generation remains uninterrupted.
• Protects Against Exploits: DDoS attacks can hide attempts to exploit or extract data.
• Additional Security Services Suggested:
  • Application Layer Protection (WAF), Network Layer Protection, Managed Security Services (SOC and SIEM), Endpoint Protection.

Distinction Between Online and Land-based Cybersecurity Needs

• Online: More secure physically (data centers), less prone to physical exploits.
• Land-based: Higher risk from physical access (e.g., in casinos, retail spaces). Example of a fish tank attack mentioned.
• Both sectors need robust protection despite different exposure risks.

Goals and Future Plans for the Gaming Exchange

• Customer Onboarding: Increase the number of customers using the exchange.
• Enhanced Functionality: Improve analytical tools and add requested features based on customer feedback.
• Expansion:
  • Expand to adjacent industries (e.g., stats providers, esports, payments, fintech).
  • Provide lowest possible latency and DDoS protection to wider industry partners.

Conclusion

• Key takeaway: Watch out for unconventional security risks, even from fish tanks.
• Justin Koznet emphasizes the importance of comprehensive cybersecurity in the iGaming industry and the benefits of using the Gaming Exchange.