YouTube, the global video-sharing platform, has announced significant changes to its content policies concerning gambling. Starting March 19th, the platform will enforce tighter regulations, specifically targeting content that promotes unapproved gambling sites and services. These changes build on existing policies aimed at curbing the exposure of potentially harmful gambling content, especially to underage users.

Enhanced measures to protect users:

Under the revised guidelines, YouTube will prohibit content that directly or indirectly directs viewers to gambling websites that do not adhere to local legal standards or have not been vetted by YouTube or its parent company, Google. This includes any verbal references, visual displays of logos, or embedded links within videos. Additionally, YouTube will start age-restricting videos that showcase or promote online gambling, making such content inaccessible to users under 18 or those who are not logged into their accounts.

According to CNN, the update is a response to the rapid increase in online gambling content following the legalization of sports betting in many U.S. states since the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision. This surge has raised concerns about the potential risks of severe gambling problems among millions of Americans, prompting YouTube to tighten its controls.

Videos that offer tips or strategies on online betting and prediction markets have become exceedingly popular, sometimes gathering hundreds of thousands of views. YouTube’s policy update includes removing any content that promises guaranteed returns or loss recovery, even from previously approved gambling sites. This move aims to curb deceptive practices and prevent unrealistic expectations about gambling outcomes.

A broader strategy for content moderation:

The latest policy adjustments are part of YouTube’s ongoing efforts to refine its content moderation strategies. Over recent years, the platform has adopted a proactive approach to restricting content that could be harmful or misleading, including misinformation about vaccines and other health-related issues. In 2023, YouTube also required disclosures for AI-generated content that could mislead viewers, enhancing transparency and accountability on the platform.

YouTube’s initiative is part of a broader trend of tightening regulations on gambling content across various countries and platforms. Countries like Italy and Germany have imposed strict advertising restrictions to combat problem gambling, while platforms like Twitch have also restricted gambling streams. These measures reflect a growing recognition of the need to balance the benefits of online platforms with the potential risks associated with gambling content.

Despite the introduction of these policies, the challenge remains in their enforcement. YouTube and other tech giants have historically faced criticism for failing to consistently apply their rules. With these new changes, YouTube reiterates its commitment to more stringent enforcement, starting with the upcoming policy implementation in March.