YouTube Sets Limits on Gambling Content from March 19th Onward
Gaming the System: YouTube's Stricter Gambling Content Policies
Starting March 19, YouTube is tightening its belt when it comes to gambling content. This means significant changes for both content creators and viewers.
YouTube will now prohibit creators from promoting unapproved gambling services, whether through direct links, logos, or verbal mentions. This move isn't just about adult users; YouTubers need to be mindful not to expose underage viewers to such content.
The new policies could affect users under 18 in a notable way. Videos featuring online gambling might be blocked for users who aren't signed into YouTube, acting as a safeguard for younger viewers. However, it's important to note that exceptions will be made for videos showcasing online sports betting and in-person gambling.
YouTube is also cracking down on content that promises guaranteed returns, regardless of Google's approval of the gambling service. This move is aimed at discouraging potentially harmful gambling behaviors.
In their attempt to create an age-appropriate environment, YouTube has been making steady strides. In 2021, they banned gambling ads from their most prominent ad slot. This year, Twitch followed suit, restricting streams displaying sites with slot games, roulette, and dice games.
So, what does this mean for creators focusing on gambling-related content like casino games and applications? YouTube believes these changes are crucial in safeguarding their community, particularly younger viewers.
The new policies could have a significant impact on creators' reach. Age-restricted videos might lose visibility in YouTube’s recommendations, reducing organic traffic. Additionally, non-gambling content featuring casino-themed elements could face algorithmic age-restriction, impacting everything from Balatro University to other channels focusing on similar themes.
Affiliates promoting gambling platforms need to be especially careful, ensuring they avoid referencing unlicensed platforms in any form, including indirect endorsements.
This clampdown aims to curb irresponsible gambling promotion but could inadvertently affect creators of legal gaming content. Striking the right balance between safety and creativity is an ongoing challenge for platforms like YouTube.
- Starting March 19, YouTube is restricting content creators from promoting unapproved gambling services, including direct links, logos, or verbal mentions, to prevent underage viewers from being exposed.
- In 2022, the new policies could especially impact creators focusing on casino games and applications, as age-restricted videos might lose visibility in YouTube’s recommendations, reducing organic traffic.
- Affiliates promoting gambling platforms must be especially careful, ensuring they avoid referencing unlicensed platforms in any form, including indirect endorsements.
- YouTube's stricter gambling content policies, including the approved list of exceptions for online sports betting and in-person gambling, are aimed at creating an age-appropriate environment, particularly amidst general news and politics discussions on policy and legislation surrounding casino-and-gambling.
