YouTube Tightens the Screws: New Crackdown on Online Gambling Content Sparks Backlash

YouTube's latest policy update hits gambling creators where it hurts—their wallets. The platform quietly rolled out stricter monetization rules this week, effectively demonetizing swaths of casino streams and betting tip videos overnight.

Creators cry foul while analysts spot the pattern: Another 'responsible content' move that conveniently funnels advertisers toward safer, brand-friendly verticals. Because nothing says corporate responsibility like quietly shifting risk from your balance sheet to struggling content farms.

The timing couldn't be worse for gambling affiliates already reeling from crypto's volatility. Guess when the house always wins, even platforms take their cut.

YouTube, a major platform for video content, is set to implement new restrictions on online gambling content starting November 17. The company announced that it would ban content directing viewers to gambling sites linked to cosmetic items in video games, in-game skins, and NFTs. This decision has raised concerns within the cryptocurrency world, sparking fears that general crypto content might also be removed from the platform. However, the Google-owned company clarified that these restrictions aim specifically at real gambling activities.

Response from the Cryptocurrency Community

YouTube’s new policy has caused unease among content creators involved in cryptocurrency games. Despite concerns that crypto games could be categorized as “casino” activities, YouTube clarified to Decrypt that this is not the case. The platform’s spokesperson emphasized that content discussing in-game achievements or digital assets like NFTs will not be affected but videos directing users to paid gambling sites will be banned.

YouTube’s Policy Coverage

While some content creators acknowledge that NFT trading and high-volatility meme coin transactions could be seen as gambling, YouTube’s priority is to block gambling sites that target users with aggressive advertisements.

The widespread promotion of activities such as case openings in games like Counter-Strike 2 has accelerated YouTube’s policy change. The company noted that certified gambling sites might be excluded from this ban, provided they meet specific regional requirements.

Scope of YouTube’s New Policy

The new policy specifically targets content creators who earn ad revenue through sponsorships from gambling platforms. Nonetheless, the promotion of all gambling operators, except for certified sites, will be prohibited. YouTube stated that platforms offering crypto or NFT rewards instead of cash WOULD also be evaluated under this policy but clarified that content exploring in-game economies or Blockchain-based gaming experiences will not be impacted.

A YouTube spokesperson mentioned that content promising guaranteed earnings could be removed, even with a Google certification. Moreover, content featuring gambling-themed elements will be subject to age restrictions. Prominent content creator Iceyyy praised the decision as a healthy step towards protecting consumers and young audiences and stated that general cryptocurrency content would remain unaffected.