Rules around online gambling advertising and why they're getting tighter
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The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend towards tougher laws on online gambling advertising. Online gambling operators are regulated by laws and ethical standards. Many gambling boards have introduced temporary restrictions. The current restrictions remain in force even today. The issue of how to advertise online is both legal and an ethical one.
A group of over 50 MPs and peers from the UK parliament authored a report calling for a shakeup of British gambling laws. They want a total ban on all gambling adverts both online and on television.
The Gambling Act is under review. The results are expected in due course. It seems likely that the UK is set to tighten its rules on advertising in the gambling sector. In Scandinavia, gambling advertising is allowed, but there is a blanket ban on targeting minors. Lithuania moved to ban several forms of gambling adverts on 1 July. In Iceland, all advertising must be in native language and make any commercial interest clear. Denmark allows advertising, and advert can't contain direct invitation to gamble. Latvia has banned gambling ads except in a casino. Estonia has a partial ban.
Rules around online gambling advertising are getting tighter. They include: Link gambling with attraction, sexual success, seduction, appealing to children, young people, or vulnerable people.
The legality of online gambling in the US is complex. It varies from state to state. Some groups advocate for operators to be proactive in their approach to self-regulation. One Senate bill has already been put forward by Senator Tom Cotton.
Before launching your website, you need to make sure you comply with your licensing requirements and with other legal requirements related to the jurisdiction you're licensed in. Failure to comply can result in big fines, penalties, and license revocation.
