YouTube Cracks Down on Gambling Content: What Creators Need to Know

YouTube is tightening its policies around online gambling content on the platform. In a recent announcement, the company outlined several new rules that will impact creators who feature gambling-related topics in their videos.

Starting on March 19th, YouTube will prohibit creators from verbally mentioning or displaying the logos of gambling services that are not approved by Google. This includes linking to these unapproved gambling sites in video descriptions.

The platform is also planning to implement age restrictions on videos about online gambling. This means that viewers under 18, or anyone not signed into a YouTube account, will be unable to watch these types of videos.

Additionally, YouTube stated it may remove content "promising guaranteed returns," regardless of whether the gambling service is approved by Google. The company cited a need to "protect our community, especially younger viewers" as the reason for these new policies.

This update follows previous actions by YouTube, as well as other platforms like Twitch, to restrict gambling-related content. In 2021, YouTube banned gambling ads from its masthead ad slot, while Twitch began restricting streams featuring certain gambling sites in 2022.

The changes are likely an effort by YouTube to get ahead of potential regulatory scrutiny and ensure the platform provides a safer, more age-appropriate experience for its users. Creators who focus on online gambling content, such as casino games and applications, will need to adapt their approach to comply with the new rules.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, platforms like YouTube are having to navigate complex issues around content moderation and user protection. These latest policy updates demonstrate YouTube's commitment to striking a balance between supporting creators and safeguarding its community.