Policy Updates

For all the promises of AI-driven ad systems and automated compliance, illegal betting ads still slip through the cracks—particularly on Google’s advertising exchange, AdX. Despite government clampdowns, unauthorized gambling platforms are thriving in plain sight, reaching users via polished, paid promotions. The algorithm can’t police it all In recent months, ads for offshore gambling sites like Parimatch, 1xBet, and Lotus365 have become increasingly visible across digital spaces. These platforms are under the scanner for financial crimes, yet their ads continue to surface through Google AdX. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued repeated warnings, urging platforms to stop facilitating these promotions. In states like Telangana, local police are filing FIRs not just against the operators, but also against celebrities endorsing these apps. So why are these ads still live? Much of it comes down to automation. Google Ads online gambling campaigns often run via real-time bidding, where ads are placed in milliseconds with minimal human oversight. In theory, policies exist to prevent illegal content—but in practice, enforcement often lags behind the speed of the system. Website owners who rely on programmatic ads rarely have the tools or resources to manually block unlawful betting PPC campaigns. A regulatory game of catch-up The scale of the issue goes beyond a few rogue actors. The real problem lies in the system’s design. Google AdX and other exchanges operate globally, often without enough regional customization to honor specific laws. As a result, illegal gambling ads continue to reach millions, undermining Indian regulatory efforts and public trust. Authorities are now calling for tighter controls and accountability from tech giants. According to a recent analysis, the current ad ecosystem leaves too much room for misuse. Unless algorithms are refined and regional filters strengthened, online gambling ads will continue to slip past gatekeepers—posing risks to consumers and legal order alike. It’s not just a tech issue anymore. It’s a public interest one.

Brazil has introduced tougher laws to fight illegal gambling. A new amendment to Law No. 14,790 now defines the promotion of unlicensed gambling, including through digital ads, as a serious offence. This includes ads on Google, social media, websites, and video platforms. The update is a direct response to the rise of unauthorised online betting, which has become a growing concern for regulators. Tech companies must cooperate with authorities Internet service providers, social media platforms, and ad networks are now required to set up official contact channels with Brazil’s federal agencies. This will allow faster communication between tech platforms and government regulators when illegal betting content needs to be flagged or removed. These platforms, including those that run Google Ads online gambling campaigns, must respond quickly to takedown requests or face penalties. New taxes worry legal operators The government also raised taxes on legal betting companies, including those running casino PPC and gambling PPC campaigns. The industry argues that these sudden changes come too soon after betting was first legalised and regulated. The Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR) says operators have already spent over R$2.3 billion on license fees and compliance. With these new tax rates, legal operators fear they may lose ground to unregulated sites that don’t pay taxes or follow the rules. Industry fights back against new rules The IBJR has announced plans to challenge the tax hikes in court. They believe that instead of taxing regulated platforms more heavily, the government should focus on shutting down illegal websites. There is concern that overregulation will drive users back to unlicensed platforms, harming the legal market and reducing future tax revenue. Funds to support public services Despite criticism, the government plans to use the extra tax income to fund health programs and campaigns against illegal gambling. Still, analysts warn that overburdening legal companies could do more harm than good, with an estimated R$2 billion in revenue lost annually to illegal betting platforms. The debate continues as both sides push for long-term solutions.

Google controls more than 97% of the search engine market in India. This makes it the main way people find websites, including those tied to illegal gambling. Even with government bans in place, these gambling sites still appear in search results. They use strong SEO strategies to stay visible, often ranking higher than legal platforms. This raises concerns about how Google’s system rewards content and how hard it is to remove unlawful websites. Different gambling sites, different traffic methods Popular names like Stake and Parimatch attract most of their users through direct visits, 75% and 65%, according to recent reports. These brands have built a strong presence. Others like 1win and Dafabet depend more on organic search traffic, showing how Google’s search system supports their reach. For many users, a simple search for “online casino” or “betting site” can lead to illegal platforms with just one click. Affiliate and social traffic add to the problem Sites such as 1xBet and 4RaBet also bring in large amounts of traffic through affiliate links. More than 15% of their visitors come from these networks. Influencers, Telegram groups, and other social platforms are used to spread links and boost traffic. Some gambling PPC and online casino PPC ads still appear in places they shouldn’t, raising questions about oversight. Weak enforcement and growing risks The Indian government has issued warnings to Google, asking the company to stop helping these platforms. Yet, little has changed. Roland Landers of the All India Gaming Federation said these sites continue to grow in reach and visibility. Even with repeated alerts, they keep using search engines and social media to attract users. Time for Google to change its policies By June 2025, pressure will have increased for Google to fix its approach. The company’s policies on Google Ads, online gambling, and casino PPC have come under fire. Without stronger action, Google will remain a key driver of traffic to these illegal sites. Stricter rules and more active monitoring may be the only way to fix the problem.

The UK Gambling Commission has issued tighter affiliate marketing rules to improve transparency and protect consumers. Affiliates promoting iGaming offers must now clearly disclose all bonus terms, especially for “no deposit” or “free spins” deals. Misleading financial promotions are banned, and all content must be age-gated. The rules state that any affiliate found marketing to minors or promoting offers on platforms accessible to under-18s will risk being terminated by operators. Stricter oversight across the European Union In the EU, countries are moving toward more uniform compliance requirements. The Netherlands now requires operators to approve affiliates before partnerships begin, while Germany’s updated Glücksspielstaatsvertrag bans the promotion of unlicensed operators and introduces mandatory player reminders. France plans to tighten control over influencer endorsements and paid collaborations. Affiliates working across multiple countries are now expected to localize content through country-specific landing pages to meet national rules. Latin America enforces partner accountability Brazil’s iGaming law mandates that operators register affiliate partners and apply official disclaimers to marketing content. Colombia and Mexico are likely to adopt similar rules, with a focus on restricting content that targets minors or promotes offshore platforms. New affiliates entering these markets must invest in legal translations, local market research, and licensed payment channels to meet compliance standards. Know Your Affiliate policies gain traction Several regulated markets are exploring Know Your Affiliate (KYA) requirements. This includes background checks, legal documentation, quarterly contract renewals, and third-party audits. These measures mirror Know Your Customer (KYC) standards and aim to hold affiliates legally accountable for the accuracy and legality of their marketing activity. AI-generated content flagged for oversight Regulators have expressed concerns over the unchecked use of automated content in affiliate marketing. While tools may assist with content production, affiliates are expected to review, revise, and clearly label such material. This is especially important in high-risk areas such as casino PPC or as well as online casino PPC where misleading or unverified claims can lead to penalties. The focus remains on ensuring that marketing practices are ethical, compliant, and fully transparent to audiences.

The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), is pushing ahead with its complete ban on sports sponsorships from gambling companies. While the ban technically began in July 2023, existing contracts were given a two-year grace period. By July 2025, all forms of sponsorship, direct or indirect, will be illegal. The KSA has reminded licensed operators of their responsibilities and urged them to prepare for the final deadline. Protecting vulnerable audiences remains the focus The KSA’s main goal is to shield minors and other at-risk groups from gambling promotion. The regulator plans to strictly enforce the rules, similar to Belgium’s approach, where even indirect sponsorship attempts resulted in penalties for sports clubs. This includes cracking down on hidden ads or partnerships that appear through digital platforms. Reforms show early signs of success Since new player protection measures were introduced in October 2024, there has been a noticeable decline in high-risk behaviour. Accounts that previously lost over €1,000 per month made up only 4% of players but generated nearly 23% of operator revenue. That figure has since dropped, indicating the updated rules are starting to have a positive impact on gambling habits. Online casino PPC and Google Ads under scrutiny As the sponsorship ban expands, digital advertising channels like Google Ads and online casino PPC campaigns are also being monitored more closely. The KSA is reviewing how operators use paid search to promote gambling services, especially in cases where they may bypass local advertising restrictions. Authorities are expected to introduce tighter controls on these platforms in the near future. Illegal operators and Cruks data raise concerns Despite strong channelization, nearly 50% of gambling funds still go to unlicensed websites. These illegal platforms often run gambling PPC campaigns that target Dutch players without regulatory oversight. By January 2025, more users, especially those under 32, had enrolled in Cruks, the self-exclusion system. The rise in Cruks sign-ups highlights the continued need for stronger enforcement and clearer ad rules to support responsible play.

Google’s updated its Gambling and Casino Games advertising policy and is now officially in place. The changes bring tighter rules, clearer definitions, and stronger enforcement across global markets. Businesses involved in gambling promotions must now follow stricter standards or risk having their ads removed, or worse, their accounts permanently banned. Gambling definitions clarified & country bans Google has refined how it defines gambling-related content. The new rules separate real-money gambling, skill-based games, and social casino apps. A specific list of banned countries has replaced the former general language. Gambling ads are now strictly prohibited in countries such as China, Bulgaria, and Egypt, helping advertisers avoid costly mistakes in their targeting. Ads in social casino games are now banned A major update targets social casino games, apps that look like slot machines or poker but use fake money. These games can no longer be used to promote real-money gambling services. Violating this rule now leads to permanent account suspension. To stay compliant, advertisers promoting both types of content must manage separate accounts and follow different rules for each. Google is now checking for valid gambling licenses in every market where ads appear. Advertisers must hold and submit proof of proper licensing. If a campaign runs without one, it could be suspended immediately. This move ensures that only licensed and legally operating businesses can advertise gambling content. Skill-based games under more rules Skill-based games that resemble gambling, even without real money, must now follow gambling ad rules if they meet legal definitions. This includes fantasy sports or competitive card games. Depending on the country, these may require special permits and restricted targeting. What advertisers need to do now Now that the new rules are in place, advertisers should check their campaigns right away. Make sure none of your ads link social casino games to real gambling, or your account could be shut down. If you’re running gambling ads, you need a valid license for each country you’re targeting. This is especially important in places like Germany, where the rules are strict. Keep your licenses ready in case Google asks for them. These updates apply to all types of gambling PPC and online casino PPC campaigns, so make sure your setup meets the new standards.

Europe’s online gambling market has spiked in recent years. In doing so, many countries have passed laws to legalise sports betting, online casinos, and other gambling activities. This push isn’t just about offering more ways to play, it’s a move to bring in more tourism and tax income. Each country has created its own rules, which together make up one of the most developed online gambling systems in the world. UK leads with strict oversight and high returns The United Kingdom remains one of the most active countries in this space. In 2023, it recorded £8.7 billion in Gross Gambling Revenue. The UK Gambling Commission makes sure all gambling companies follow strict rules and hold proper licences. These rules are in place to protect players and make sure the market runs fairly. Different countries, different age limits Across Europe, the legal age to gamble varies. In the UK and Bulgaria, it’s 18. In Ukraine, it’s 21. More countries are now focused on helping players stay in control of their gambling habits. Many sites offer tools like spending limits, cool-off periods, and reminders to take breaks. Licences bring structure and safety Any gambling company wanting to operate legally in Europe needs a licence. These licences come with strict conditions. Operators must be clear about how their games work, provide honest support, and protect customer funds. They’re also expected to respond quickly to complaints and offer reliable service. Tighter checks and changing ad rules To reduce fraud and illegal money transfers, companies must confirm user identities and check from where deposits come. These checks are required under EU law and help prevent criminal activity. Meanwhile, operators must now follow updated Google Ads gambling regulations 2025, which include changes in how services can be promoted across regions. The online gambling advertising policy Google now places stronger controls on ad placements, wording, and audience targeting to protect users and meet legal standards.

In a bold move to tackle the growing crisis of gambling addiction, the Kenyan government have imposed a sweeping 30-day ban on all gambling advertisements across media platforms. This unprecedented decision underscores the urgent need to protect vulnerable populations and could have knock-on effects far beyond Kenya. Gambling crackdown: Industry faces wake-up call The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), led by Chairperson Dr Jane Mwikali Makau, announced the advertising ban in response to mounting concerns over the impact of gambling promotions, particularly on young and vulnerable audiences. Dr Makau described the unchecked exposure as a public health crisis, pointing to a troubling rise in gambling-related suicides. In light of these dangers, the government has formed a multi-agency Enforcement team. This group is tasked with creating and enforcing new regulations that prioritise responsible gambling and protect at-risk communities from further harm. Although the ban is set for just 30 days, it’s widely seen as the beginning of a broader shift in policy. Kenya’s move signals a strong commitment to long-term reform and could serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar issues. By taking a firm stance, Kenya are not only aiming to restore integrity within their gambling industry but also sending a clear message to global digital platforms and advertisers: the era of unregulated gambling promotion is coming to an end. Implications for global advertisers Kenya’s clampdown comes at a time when digital giants are already reassessing their advertising policies. With the Google Ads gambling regulations 2025 set to roll out globally, platforms like Google may soon be under pressure to align with stricter standards. These new Google Ads gambling rules are expected to include tougher age restrictions, content transparency requirements, and limitations on ad placement. If nations like Kenya continue to take bold regulatory steps, companies advertising on Google could face heightened scrutiny. The recent Google Ads policy gambling updates reflect a growing awareness of this shift. As global regulators take notice, advertisers will likely need to prepare for a future where ethical responsibility isn’t just encouraged—it’s enforced. Global news outlets have highlighted the growing international momentum behind such policy shifts.

Dutch lawmakers are urging Google to take stronger action against unlicensed gambling adverts that continue to target users in the Netherlands. Despite existing regulations from the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the country’s gambling authority, illegal operators are still finding ways to reach players through search results and paid ads. Proposal for stricter search and ad controls Members of Parliament Mikal Tseggai (Labour Party) and Willem Koops (New Social Contract Party) have introduced a proposal that calls for tighter controls on how gambling websites appear in search engines. They suggest that only gambling operators with a licence from the KSA should be visible in search results or allowed to advertise. Under their plan, Google and other search providers would need to verify that websites are licensed before displaying them, using a whitelist curated by the KSA. Google has responded by affirming that its current advertising policy already aligns with the local regulatory framework. The company insists that it only allows licensed gambling operators to advertise in countries where gambling is regulated, a policy it has applied in other regions such as Germany and Nigeria. However, critics, including the Dutch Quality Mark Responsible Affiliates (KVA), argue that unlicensed gambling sites still manage to circumvent these measures, often using deceptive keywords to attract Dutch users. Enforcement and industry concerns The KSA has been actively cracking down on illegal operators, most recently fining Starscream, a Saint Lucia-based gambling site, £243,600 per week for offering services without a license in the Netherlands. Another operator was hit with a £638,580 fine for failing to protect young adults from gambling harm. Since the start of 2025, the KSA has also removed 20 unlicensed gambling apps from Dutch app stores. Despite these efforts, the KVA estimates that over one million Dutch punters continue to use unregulated websites, highlighting the ongoing challenges in curbing illegal online gambling. Looking ahead to policy updates As part of the Google Ads gambling policy updates, the Dutch government is reviewing the 2021 Remote Gambling Act. There is growing pressure to introduce stricter Google Ads gambling regulations in 2025. This may include higher age limits for online slots and tighter advertising restrictions to reduce exposure to unlicensed operators and safeguard vulnerable users.