George TsagkarakisIn Brief
- YouTube is set to extend its prohibition on online gambling content to include redirecting to sites offering items like video game skins, cosmetics, and NFTs starting November 17.
- The platform clarifies that this policy change will not impact content discussing video game skins, cosmetics, or general discussions about NFTs, which have real-world monetary value.
- Certified gambling sites by Google will not be affected by this new enforcement, but misleading content promising guaranteed returns will still be subject to removal or age restrictions.
YouTube Tightens Online Gambling Policies
YouTube has announced an update to its policy concerning online gambling content, which will now include a ban on videos directing viewers to external sites that trade in digital items like video game skins, cosmetics, and NFTs. This change, scheduled to take effect on November 17, aims to address concerns related to the monetization of digital goods which can have real-world monetary value.
Clarifications Amidst Community Concerns
Initially, there was significant unrest within the cryptocurrency community, as many were under the impression that this update might lead to a comprehensive prohibition against all crypto-related content on the platform. Addressing these concerns, a YouTube spokesperson confirmed to Decrypt that the policy update specifically targets external links leading to gambling platforms and will not affect content that simply discusses or shows digital goods like game skins or NFTs.
Impact on Crypto Gaming and Gambling Content
The modification in YouTube’s policy comes amidst growing scrutiny over elements in modern gaming and the crypto sphere that resemble gambling practices. For instance, opening cases in games like Counter-Strike 2 has often been likened to gambling, primarily because these in-game items can be sold for cryptocurrency in open markets. Moreover, the volatility associated with trading NFTs and meme coins has raised questions over their comparison to gambling.
In its policy update, YouTube makes clear that its aim is not to curtail legitimate crypto gaming content but to cut down on the influence of casino sites that have increasingly sponsored such content. These sites not only deal in cash but also offer payouts in crypto tokens and NFTs, potentially roping in a broader user audience, including minors.
Exceptions and Ongoing Standards
It’s noteworthy that gambling sites certified by Google will remain unaffected by the new rules. While Google does not publicly list these certified sites, they are often subject to strict regional regulations, such as those in the United States where online gambling is permitted only within specific states.
Crypto gaming content creators, such as Iceyyy, expressed support for YouTube’s decision, viewing it as a step towards establishing mature guidelines that safeguard consumers and prevent underage exposure to gambling content. As per YouTube’s guidelines, while content featuring or promoting certified online gambling may not be outright banned, it must still adhere to age-restriction protocols.
The YouTube spokesperson emphasized, “As always, content promising guaranteed returns may be removed regardless of whether the gambling site or application has been certified by Google.” This underscores the platform’s commitment to maintaining a safe viewing environment and ensuring that content providers adhere to community guidelines and don’t mislead viewers with unrealistic promises.
