Skip to content

New Zealand cracks down on 20Bet's illegal YouTube gambling ads

A bold move to shield Kiwis from unregulated betting. Why this offshore operator's ads crossed the line—and what happens next.

The image shows a man playing a slot machine with the words "Jackpot" on it. He is surrounded by a...
The image shows a man playing a slot machine with the words "Jackpot" on it. He is surrounded by a board with text and pictures of fruits, suggesting that he is playing online casino games.

New Zealand cracks down on 20Bet's illegal YouTube gambling ads

New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has ordered offshore gambling operator 20Bet to halt its advertising on YouTube. The ads, which promoted online pokies and sports betting, breached the country's strict rules against offshore gambling promotions.

Under section 16 of the Gambling Act, advertising offshore online casino gambling to New Zealanders is illegal. The DIA has now taken direct action against the operator for violating these regulations.

The DIA issued a formal instruction to 20Bet, demanding an immediate stop to its YouTube advertising. The ads had targeted New Zealanders, offering online pokies and sports betting—both of which fall under the country's ban on offshore gambling promotions.

While the exact number of foreign operators sanctioned for similar violations in recent years remains undisclosed, the DIA has made it clear that enforcement will continue. If 20Bet fails to comply, further action may follow.

The Problem Gambling Foundation has also urged the public to report any offshore gambling news they encounter. This call reinforces efforts to curb illegal promotions and protect vulnerable individuals from unregulated gambling risks.

The DIA's intervention against 20Bet highlights ongoing efforts to enforce New Zealand's gambling laws. Monitoring will persist, and additional penalties could be imposed if the news resurface. The move serves as a reminder that offshore gambling promotions remain strictly prohibited in the country.

Read also: