YouTube revises policy on gambling content, RMG experts weigh in
YouTube is tightening its policies on gambling content and implementing to regulate online betting videos. From 19 March 2025, creators will no longer be able to mention unapproved gambling services verbally, show their logos, or add links to them. Age restrictions will also be imposed on gambling-related content, excluding underage users.
What YouTube��s new policy includes?
According to YouTube��s new policy, creators must refrain from referring to unauthorised gambling services orally, showing the logos or pictures of unauthorised gambling websites, and including links from external sites that aren��t vetted by YouTube or Google.
These changes aim to create a safer online environment and reduce exposure to potentially harmful gambling promotions. YouTube will start enforcing these rules on 19th March 2025. Any violations after this date may result in content removal or channel penalties.
Prohibited content under the new policy
Content creators can no longer verbally promote unapproved gambling platforms. Similarly, displaying gambling company logos in thumbnails or within videos is now prohibited. YouTube has clarified that linking to external gambling sites that don��t meet local legal requirements is against its guidelines. Google and YouTube will review and determine which gambling services meet their standards.
Another important update is the removal of videos that promise guaranteed winnings. Even if Google approves a gambling service, content suggesting guaranteed profits or loss recovery schemes will be removed.
Age restrictions for gambling content
One major change is the introduction of age restrictions on gambling-related videos. As a result, users under 18 cannot access this content, and viewers must be signed in to watch gambling-related videos. Interestingly, YouTube has clarified that certain gambling-related content will not be restricted, including videos featuring online sports betting and those showing in-person gambling activities.
YouTube spokesperson Boot Bullwinkle said to CNN, ��We��ve strengthened our policies that prohibit content directing viewers to unapproved gambling websites or applications. We will also begin age-restricting content that promotes online 바카라s.��
YouTube��s history of gambling policy changes
This isn��t YouTube��s first move to restrict gambling content. In 2021, YouTube banned gambling advertisements in its masthead ad slot. In 2022, Twitch limited streams featuring certain gambling websites. Additionally, Google has been to ensure compliance with age-appropriate content.
Statement from the RMG industry
A real money gaming operator, who spoke anonymously to , said there has been a noteworthy rise in live streams with illegal betting and gambling content in India. The operator stressed that YouTube��s latest crackdown is a big blow for offshore gambling sites operating unlawfully within the nation. This action is likely to significantly impede these websites from attracting Indian clients.
The RMG operator stated, ��Lately, we have been noticing and reporting live streams featuring illegal betting and gambling content in India. YouTube��s crackdown is yet another blow to offshore gambling platforms operating illegally in the country. This will significantly impact gambling websites�� ability to penetrate the Indian market.��
The gaming operator further stated that YouTube should remove existing gambling content and issue advisories to influencers.
The operator continued, ��Nonetheless, we anticipate YouTube deleting current gambling material from its website. YouTube must also release a warning to influencers, cautioning them against endorsing gambling and betting sites or else face shadow bans and monetary sanctions, which will restrict their content��s visibility.��
Expert opinions on the crackdown
A leading gaming industry policy specialist weighed in on the issue, explaining that several illegal gambling businesses lure mid-tier influencers to advertise their sites. Although the professionals praised YouTube��s enforcement, they further emphasised the need to get the word out within the community to facilitate the elimination of such content.
The gaming industry policy expert mentioned in the report said, ��Multiple illegal gambling companies entice mid-sized influencers to promote illegal betting and gambling websites, offering compensation ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 depending on the deliverables. While YouTube��s crackdown is commendable, the platform should also focus on raising awareness within the community to ensure a complete eradication of such content.��
Recent actions by Indian law enforcement
In a recent operation, the Visakhapatnam Cybercrime Police arrested YouTuber and fisherman Vasupalli Nani. The arrest followed a complaint that Nani had been promoting online betting apps through his live streams on YouTube. Similarly, the Kerala Police have taken stringent measures against social media influencers promoting illegal betting apps.
