YouTube will roll out a new set of restrictions on November 17, 2025, to limit how much gambling and violent video game content reaches younger audiences. The upcoming enforcement marks one of the most comprehensive updates to the platform’s Community Guidelines, targeting both traditional and virtual gambling elements—including NFTs and in-game assets with monetary value.

According to Google, YouTube’s parent company, the revised framework will cover digital goods and activities that simulate gambling behavior, even if they do not involve real money. Videos depicting casino-style gameplay such as slots, poker, or roulette, as well as NFT-based wagering or betting with in-game items, will now fall under age restrictions or risk removal.

Previously, YouTube’s policy primarily prohibited links to unapproved gambling websites. The new rules broaden that scope significantly, extending enforcement to gambling-like features embedded within video games or associated with digital collectibles. This includes virtual assets with real-world market value, such as “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” weapon skins or NFT tokens used in betting exchanges.

The company emphasized that these rules apply globally, and creators have a short window before enforcement begins to review and adjust their existing uploads. “We expect most channels will experience little to no impact, but we know this is a lot of information, and we want to ensure you have time to adapt,” YouTube said in its policy announcement.

Certification and Compliance Requirements

As part of this initiative, YouTube will also require creators offering gambling-related content to meet Google’s certification standards. Google certifies advertisers on a country-by-country basis, allowing only those operating legally within jurisdictions that permit gambling. Certification is mandatory for promoting content related to sports betting, online casinos, horse racing, lotteries, or fantasy sports.

If a creator’s content features social casinos—digital platforms that mimic gambling without involving real currency—they must clearly disclose that distinction. Google also requires certified advertisers to display disclaimers confirming that their offerings are intended only for users of legal gambling age.

By integrating certification standards, YouTube aims to align creator content with Google’s broader advertising policies. The move reflects growing concern over the rise of social casino models that blend digital assets and dual-currency systems, blurring the lines between casual gaming and gambling.

Impact on Monetization and Existing Content

Videos deemed to simulate gambling or depict realistic violence will be restricted to viewers aged 18 and above. YouTube noted that while such content can still be monetized, it may face reduced visibility in recommendations or limited ad eligibility.

Older uploads that violate the new standards could be removed or restricted, though the company confirmed these actions will not trigger strikes against the affected channels. Instead, creators can appeal through YouTube Studio, providing timestamps or contextual explanations—such as educational or documentary purposes—to support their case.

YouTube advised creators to proactively review their existing libraries before November 17, apply manual age restrictions when necessary, remove links to uncertified gambling sites, and stay updated via the Creator Blog for any future policy adjustments.

Aligning with Broader Digital Safety Efforts

YouTube’s tightening of its content policy mirrors recent steps by its parent company, Google, which has updated its Gambling and Games Policy to clarify restrictions on sweepstakes and other casino-like gaming formats. The company is also facing legal scrutiny in New Jersey over alleged connections to unregulated sweepstakes casino platforms.

These coordinated updates highlight the tech giant’s broader effort to ensure compliance with digital safety standards and protect minors from exposure to gambling or violent material. YouTube confirmed that it will continue revising its content framework as technologies such as blockchain, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence evolve.