YouTube’s Stance on Gambling Content

YouTube has recently positioned itself as the latest video-sharing platform to take a stand against certain segments of the gambling industry. Specifically, YouTube is targeting parts of the industry that fail to comply with local licensing or regulatory standards.

Drawing parallels with a similar move by Twitch, YouTube declared on Tuesday its decision to no longer allow content that endorses ‘unapproved gambling websites.’ This term refers to sites that lack the necessary licenses in designated areas.

YouTube to Update Gambling Content Regulations and Strengthen Video Policies

This initiative, echoing Twitch’s actions in 2022, encompasses a broad ban on promotional activities. This prohibition includes lines, images, text, logos, or even verbal mentions within video content. In an official statement, YouTube expressed:

“We understand this update may affect creators who focus on online gambling content such as casino games and applications. However, we believe these changes are crucial for protecting our community, particularly younger viewers.”

The definition of an ‘unapproved gambling site’ is inherently complex. As a global entity, YouTube recognizes that a website licensed in one region may not automatically possess the right to operate in another.

Consequently, YouTube asserts that any websites failing to adhere to local laws and not sanctioned by the platform or its parent company, Google, will be considered ‘unapproved.’

Speaking to CNN, YouTube spokesperson Boot Bullwinkle mentioned that the company had bolstered its policies to shield consumers from exposure to such content.

Further modifications to YouTube’s policy involve:

• Age restrictions on gambling-related content, preventing access by users under 18 or those not logged in to verify their age.
• Scrutiny of how gambling promotions are presented.

In line with the ‘risk-free’ narrative seen in the United States, YouTube has adopted a critical stance on content that portrays gambling as a means to secure ‘guaranteed winnings.’ The policy shift emphasizes the reality that gambling is a game of chance, and winning is fortuitous.

YouTube Faces Regulatory Pressure Across Various Regions

In several regions, there has been a strong push for video-sharing platforms to take consumer protection seriously.

YouTube and Twitch have encountered challenges in countries like Italy, where local authorities insist that these companies prevent the promotion of illegal gambling. This is particularly relevant for platforms targeting Italian users without proper licensing.

The new policy changes at YouTube will be implemented starting March 19, with immediate enforcement of the updated regulations.