National Council on Problem Gambling comments on Twitch's gambling link ban
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The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in the US has responded to Twitch's decision to ban gambling site links.
Despite plenty of analysis into how best to use Twitch to promote gambling links in recent months, a ban has been implemented from today – 17 August – on sharing links to gambling sites.
This will naturally have a bearing on affiliates and operators looking to use Twitch, as well as the revenue sources of professional casino game streamers.
The NCPG says it had campaigned in support of action from Twitch to protect under-age and vulnerable gamblers. Now Keith Whyte, the NCPG's Executive Director, has reacted to Twitch's ban.
He said in a statement: “Twitch has taken a good first step to help protect young and vulnerable users by preventing the sharing of links to gambling websites. However, much more must be done.
“Everybody should be concerned that Twitch still allows the broadcast of unregulated and illegal gambling and that sites like Stake and Roobet pay popular streamers to play the casino games on their channels.
"It is incumbent on Twitch to focus on the health of their users, especially young people who are susceptible to developing a gambling addiction thanks to what they are exposed to in the streaming platform.”
Whyte went on to add that he believes Twitch should restrict gambling content to adult viewers only, and ensure streamers are able to gamble legally in their jurisdiction.
