YouTube’s gambling policy update coincides with increased gambling ads on social media, as India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and CCPA warn that promoting such content could result in legal consequences under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019
YouTube is ramping up its crackdown by tightening its policies on gambling content across the platform. The Google-owned video-sharing site on March 4 announced that it would implement new rules, effective March 19, 2025, as part of its policy change aimed at curbing the proliferation of gambling videos on YouTube.
Under the updated YouTube policies, videos can no longer feature URLs, embedded links, logos, or verbal references to gambling websites or apps unless they are certified by Google Ads or reviewed by YouTube. The platform currently only allows links to gambling sites that adhere to local legal standards. In addition, any content that promotes online gambling with promises of guaranteed returns, regardless of whether the gambling site is approved, will be removed under the new rules.
This YouTube gambling ban builds on the platform's existing stance against illegal and regulated goods, which already prohibits directing viewers to uncertified gambling sites. Furthermore, videos promoting online gambling content, such as online casino sites or apps, will now be age-restricted. This means that users under 18 or those not logged in will be unable to view such content, as part of the broader effort to protect younger audiences from harmful material.
India warns against promoting gambling
A YouTube spokesperson explained, "We understand the YouTube policy update may affect creators focused on gambling content, but these changes are vital for safeguarding our community, particularly younger viewers."
This YouTube gambling policy change comes at a time when online gambling apps and betting sites have been heavily advertising on social media platforms like YouTube. In India, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued repeated advisories against promoting gambling, and the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) also warned in March 2024 that promoting gambling activities could result in strict legal consequences under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
With the growing concerns about the impact of gambling content on vulnerable viewers, YouTube’s online gambling crackdown reflects a broader effort to adjust to shifting trends in media consumption and protect its user base.
