YouTube To Begin More Strict Monitoring Of Gambling-Related Content

YouTube announced Tuesday it would begin more strict monitoring of gambling-related content and will no longer allow content that directs users to what it calls “unapproved” gambling websites.

YouTube’s announcement, first reported by CNN, revealed an expansion of its existing policy that prohibits linking to external sites that violate its rules. On YouTube’s “Creator Insider” video account, a host provided an explanation of the changes that would take effect March 19.

“Currently we don’t allow any method of directing viewers to gambling sites or applications that aren’t certified by Google,” said Preston, the Creator Insider host. “Now this policy will include URLs, links embedded in images, or text visual displays including logos or verbal references.

“And content promising guaranteed returns may be removed regardless of whether the online gambling site or application has been approved by Google.”

Age-related restrictions also coming

YouTube will also require that depictions or promotions of online casino sites or apps be age-restricted. Preston explained the policy, noting 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.”

There are multiple channels on YouTube offering to teach viewers how to make money via online sports betting and prediction markets. That makes the new policy in which “content promising guaranteed returns may be removed” a notable part of its expansion.

Nearly $475 billion has been wagered in legal commercial sports betting markets since it expanded on a state-by-state basis after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled PASPA was unconstitutional in 2018.

The nearly $150 billion wagered in 2024 — an overwhelming majority of it done via online sites and mobile devices — was up more than 23% from the previous year.