Montana officials partner with tech firm to track illegal gambling

HELENA, Mont. — The Montana Department of Justice has entered into an agreement with a data-analytics company to monitor unlicensed gambling operations across the state.

The partnership pairs the state's Gambling Control Division with Gaming Compliance International, a firm that specializes in tracking unlicensed gaming activity and advertising.

Under the agreement, the company will work with state regulators to map black-market gambling operations, monitor advertising channels and identify possible connections between licensed and unlicensed operators. The effort will use analytical tools and investigative methods.

"The Montana Department of Justice is committed to ensuring an ethical and fair gaming environment for Montanans," said Alex Sterhan, administrator of the Gambling Control Division. "We are proud to partner with GCI to bring advanced technology and operational capabilities from across the nation and abroad to help our fight against illegal gambling operations."

The collaboration is intended to give state officials visibility into gambling market activity, including online platforms and local operations that may be operating without licenses.

Matthew Holt, CEO of Gaming Compliance International, said the partnership reflects states working with private companies to address regulatory matters.

"This program demonstrates how public-private partnerships can deliver timely insights and measurable results in addressing the challenges posed by unregulated gaming markets," Holt said.

The Gambling Control Division oversees gambling businesses and organizations in Montana, handling licensing, enforcement, fraud prevention and financial audits. The division also investigates complaints and works to maintain the state's regulated gaming industry.

Gaming Compliance International provides compliance technology and consulting services to government regulators, including automated data capture, revenue auditing and market monitoring. The company works with jurisdictions across the country and internationally.

The partnership was announced Tuesday, February 25, 2026, as states monitor both physical and online gambling markets.