Stricter Gambling Rules on YouTube: What Creators and Users Need to Know

YouTube is ramping up its efforts to curb the promotion of unregulated online gambling. The platform, owned by Google, has announced stricter measures that will prohibit creators from verbally endorsing or referencing uncertified gambling websites and apps. Additionally, creators who display logos or provide links to unapproved gambling services will face bans.

In a policy update released on Tuesday, March 4, YouTube emphasized its commitment to protecting its community, particularly younger audiences. “We recognize that these changes may affect creators specializing in online gambling content, such as casino games and apps. However, we believe these steps are essential to safeguard our users,” the company stated.

Previously, directing viewers to unapproved gambling platforms was already against Google’s policies. Now, YouTube has expanded its restrictions to include content that promises guaranteed returns, regardless of whether the gambling site or app is certified.

Furthermore, videos promoting or depicting online casino platforms may be automatically age-restricted. This means that such content—excluding online sports betting and in-person gambling depictions—will be inaccessible to users under 18 or those not logged into their accounts.

The updated policies will take effect on March 19. This move follows Google’s 2021 decision to ban gambling ads from its masthead ad slot. In India, Google has already imposed strict prohibitions on location-based gambling ads and the promotion of online casino games.

A recent report by the Digital India Foundation (DIF) highlights the scale of the issue. Over three months, social media ads drove approximately 42.8 million visits to four illegal gambling sites in India. Additionally, over one billion visits to such platforms came from users directly entering URLs, indicating the lingering impact of past marketing efforts and referrals.

The report underscores the importance of restricting illegal advertising to regulate illicit markets effectively. “Countries in the European Union, Australia, and the United Kingdom have made significant strides in combating illegal gambling ads on social media by collaborating closely with major digital platforms,” it noted.