YouTube Cracks Down on Gambling Content in New Regulatory Measures

YouTube is tightening its restrictions on content relating to gambling, in a push to protect its audience – particularly younger viewers – from potentially harmful material.

From March 19, the online video-sharing giant will cease to permit content that directs viewers to unlicensed and unapproved gambling websites. These are platforms that have not been reviewed by YouTube or its parent company Google, or do not comply with local laws.

Users will no longer be able to use links, images, text or even logos to navigate to the unapproved sites. It comes after an explosion in gambling content on YouTube, featuring platforms with dubious origins.

The move is an expansion of YouTube’s existing restrictions on links to external sites that do not comply with its rules. Any content creators who violate the new regulations could find their channel demonetized and/or videos removed.

Boot Bullwinkle, YouTube’s spokesperson, told 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 casinos.”

Google, the owner of YouTube, is also making efforts to step up its control of gambling-relating content. It announced in February a number of changes to its Gambling and Games advertising policy, which are due to be implemented in April.

The issue of links to unlicensed sites has become more urgent as increasing numbers of states have legalized online sports betting.

Licensing authorities are keen to ensure that legitimate online betting operators encourage their customers to stay in control of their gambling. Responsible gaming is meant to be a key priority for brands and legislators, and YouTube has recognized this.

YouTube’s move shows it does not want to play any part in directing its users to websites that are not licensed to operate in locations where online wagering is not allowed. It is also concerned about content that promises ‘guaranteed’ gambling returns.

Video makers instructing their viewers how to make ‘guaranteed’ money from online sports betting have become extremely popular, with hundreds of thousands of views. 

Lurid claims like those have caused alarm at YouTube, which insists that new measures are needed so that it can remain a safe and responsible platform.