YouTube is set to implement stricter regulations on gambling-related content from March 19th, significantly impacting streamers and content creators.
Following the surge of online gambling in the US, YouTube has revised its policies around slot streaming, restricting access to certain viewers and preventing links to unregulated casino sites.
What These New Rules Mean For Streamers
The updated guidelines now prohibit slot streamers from sharing links, images, logos, or verbal references that direct users to gambling sites not explicitly approved by YouTube or its parent company, Google.
Furthermore, age restrictions will be imposed on content promoting online casinos. This will prevent access for viewers under the age of 18 and those not logged into their account, a move which is expected to impact the viewership of slot streamers on the platform.
Previously, YouTube had enforced bans on external links to sites violating its terms, including certain gambling platforms. However, the current update expands this policy, stipulating that content promising guaranteed winnings will be subject to removal.
What Does YouTube Say?
A spokesperson for YouTube commented on the new policy saying: “We know this update may impact creators who focus on online gambling content like casino games and applications, but we believe these changes are a necessary step in protecting our community, especially younger viewers.”
In particular, YouTube wants to crack down on content that is unsuitable for minors as well as enhance its oversight of external links, adding: “We have fortified our policies that prohibit content directing viewers to unapproved gambling websites or applications. We will also commence age-restricting content that promotes online casinos.”
A Growing Trend Of Restrictions
These recent changes to gambling policy are part of a wider initiative to regulate content on its platform. The site has previously targeted videos promoting unhealthy eating and extreme dieting, misinformation surrounding vaccines and abortion as well as AI-generated content.
Moreover, these changes see YouTube align with growing global regulatory pressure. Countries like Italy, Colombia, France, and Germany have implemented stringent restrictions on gambling advertising and promotion, reflecting a worldwide trend of tighter regulation.
YouTube – A Platform In Decline?
As YouTube continue to tighten regulations, many content creators are beginning to explore alternative avenues. The biggest of which is Kick.com, a streaming service that is gaining traction from slot streamers and their respective communities. While Kick currently lacks direct video upload capabilities similar to YouTube, it offers a more creator-friendly environment with fewer restrictions.
The fact that gambling regulations vary widely across countries presents a significant hurdle for streamers as their audiences may live in a variety of locations. Adding to this, YouTube’s inconsistent enforcement of its policies creates further uncertainty and frustration for content creators.
Our Thoughts on The Changes
YouTube’s tightened regulations reflect a global trend towards stricter control of online gambling promotion, advertising and endorsements. While we only advertise fully licenced, safe, fair and legal casino sites we fear this trend may start becoming too strict, inhibiting the enjoyment and excitement of millions of players who regularly tune into their favourite slot streamers.
Additionally, we’re aware many of our viewers use our content as a resource for both slot education and a way to “scratch the itch” that gambling can present. Without this, viewers may seek alternative, potentially riskier, outlets, such as gambling directly or viewing content that does not adhere to safe gambling practices. Anecdotally, we raise an eyebrow when elements of the iGaming industry such as sports betting can be freely advertised on television and YouTube whereas slot-focused content cannot.
