YouTube is poised to introduce stricter rules on content tied to online gambling effective November 17. This move will see the platform prohibiting videos that drive traffic to gambling websites connected with cosmetic items in games, in-game skins, and NFTs. Many within the cryptocurrency sector worry this shift might extend to crypto-related content. However, YouTube has clarified that the aim is strictly at curtailing real gambling activities.
How is the Cryptocurrency Community Reacting?
The announcement has sparked anxiety among creators of cryptocurrency games. Although there were fears that these games might be lumped into “casino” activities, YouTube has assured Decrypt that this isn’t the case. The platform has stated that videos discussing in-game rewards or NFTs won’t be targeted, focusing instead on content directing viewers to funded gambling sites.
Despite the apprehensions, some creators recognize that NFT trading and volatile meme coin activities have gambling undertones. YouTube’s efforts primarily focus on preventing exposure to gambling platforms with aggressive advertising tactics.
What Exactly Does YouTube’s New Policy Entail?
This policy zeroes in on creators who profit from advertisements via gambling sponsorships. Excluding certified sites meeting specific criteria, promotion of gambling operators is set to be banned. YouTube expressed that platforms offering digital rewards like crypto or NFTs instead of money will face scrutiny under this policy. Nonetheless, content dissecting in-game economies or blockchain-based gaming will remain untouched.
A YouTube representative noted that content guaranteeing returns risks removal, regardless of certification status. Videos with gambling-like themes will face age-based restrictions. Praising the move, notable creator Iceyyy believes it safeguards consumers and youngsters, stressing that mainstream crypto content remains safe.
Here are specifics to consider following this policy:
- •Emphasis on halting content that steers viewers to paid gambling platforms.
- •Assurance to maintain content related to in-game achievements and NFTs untouched.
- •Exemption for certain certified gambling sites based on regional compliance.
- •Age restrictions for any content encompassing gambling themes.
With these new guidelines, YouTube aims to create a safer environment by tightly monitoring and regulating gambling-related promotions, while simultaneously reassuring the crypto community that their content remains unaffected by these changes.