YouTube has announced a strict crackdown on gambling-related content, which the Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry welcomes. Starting March 19, the platform will prohibit content that directs users to “unapproved” gambling websites through links, images, text, logos, or verbal references.
RMG Leaders Praises YouTube’s Crackdown On Gambling Sites
YouTube defines unapproved gambling sites as those that do not meet local legal requirements or have not been reviewed by YouTube or its parent company, Google. This update reinforces YouTube’s existing policies against linking to external sites that violate its guidelines, including illicit betting platforms. Moreover, users under 18 and those not logged in will no longer be able to access gambling-related content.
In India, illegal betting and gambling promotions have been rampant, with influencers and streamers leveraging platforms such as YouTube and Twitch to endorse unregulated offshore betting sites.
Industry experts believe that YouTube’s decision will help in reducing misleading gambling content in the country. Jay Sayta, Technology & Gaming Lawyer applauded the move, stating, “YouTube’s change in policy to restrict logos and links of unauthorised gambling websites and not allow content promising guaranteed returns is a welcome step that will help to a great extent in preventing gullible Indian users from getting lured into participating on illegal offshore betting websites. One hopes that YouTube will vigilantly enforce any breach of these new guidelines and take down content trying to circumvent this new policy immediately.”
An anonymous real-money gaming operator noted that the crackdown would largely impact offshore gambling sites operating illegally in India. “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,” they said.
Recently, Indian authorities intensified their efforts against illegal gambling promotions. The Visakhapatnam Cybercrime Police arrested YouTuber Vasupalli Nani for promoting betting apps, while the Kerala Police cracked down on influencers like Mallu Family Sujin and Wayanadan Vlogger for endorsing online gambling.
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