YouTube Tightens Its Policies Around Gambling Content

YouTube

YouTube is tightening its policies around gambling content.

Starting March 19th, YouTube will expand its existing policies on illegal or regulated goods and services, which currently prohibit methods of directing viewers, to include URLs, embedded links, images, text, visual displays, or verbal references to gambling sites or apps that are not certified by Google. This means they do not meet local legal requirements and have not been reviewed by YouTube.

Additionally, any content that promises guaranteed returns may be removed, regardless of whether the site or app is Google-approved. Content that does not violate Community Guidelines but still features depictions or promotions of online casino sites or apps may still be age-restricted.

Why It Matters: As part of its ongoing effort to protect viewers, YouTube’s updated policies aim to limit the impact of gambling content, particularly on younger audiences. This is especially relevant as sports betting continues to rise.

On the flip side, creators who focus on gambling content may experience a drop in viewership due to age restrictions, face Community Guidelines violations, or even lose revenue if they rely on affiliate promotions.