YouTube Shuts Down ‘Unapproved’ Gambling Websites Luring Viewers

By Movieguide® Contributor

YouTube just announced their latest crackdown which involves content that is luring viewers to gambling sports betting websites.

According to CNN, YouTube will “no longer allow content that directs users to “unapproved” gambling websites through links, images, text, logos or verbal references.”

YouTube Spokesperson, Boot Bullwinkle told CNN, “We’ve strengthened our policies that prohibit content directing viewers to unapproved gambling websites or applications. We will also begin age-restricting content that promotes online casinos.”

These new rules will take effect on March 19th, and anyone who is caught breaching the agreement will have their video removed immeditely.

“We know this update may impact creators who focus on online gambling content like casino games and applications, but we believe these changes are a necessary step in protecting our community, especially younger viewers,” YouTube said in the announcement.

The two major changes coming to YouTube include:

Under our existing policies relating to illegal or regulated goods or services, we don’t allow any method of directing viewers to gambling sites or applications that are not certified by Google. This now includes URLs, links embedded in images or text, visual displays (incl. logos) or verbal references. Please note that content promising guaranteed returns may be removed regardless of whether the online gambling site or application has been approved by Google.
Content that does not violate our Community Guidelines but still features depictions or promotions of online casino sites or apps may be age-restricted. This means that online gambling content (excluding online sports betting and depictions of in-person gambling) won’t be viewable to signed-out users or users under 18.

The update ot the policy marks one of YouTube’s first content moderation changes in recent years.

One of the last changes the company made was about restricting certain types of content like false information about vaccines.