Government of India warns social media Influencers not to promote betting apps, gambling

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a stern warning to endorsers and social media influencers against the promotion of offshore online betting and gambling platforms.

The government said that these ads have significant financial and socioeconomic implications on consumers, particularly the youth.

What does the advisory say?

The advisory explicitly instructs social media influencers and celebrities to avoid promoting or advertising these offshore platforms, including surrogate advertisements.

It extends its caution to online advertising intermediaries, advising against targeting such promotional content at Indian audiences. The move aims to mitigate the adverse effects of online betting and gambling, which are seen as significant threats to consumers' financial well-being and socio-economic stability.

What if they don't follow?

The Ministry has not only issued a warning but has also outlined the legal consequences of non-compliance. According to the advisory, failure to adhere to these guidelines may trigger proceedings under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. This could include the removal or disabling of social media posts or accounts and further penal action under applicable statutes.

The advisory leverages Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000, emphasizing the legal obligation of intermediaries to remove or disable access to unlawful content promptly.

The ministry has also advised social media intermediaries to conduct sensitization efforts among their users to refrain from publishing such content. The aim is to educate and discourage the publication of content that promotes offshore betting and gambling.

A unified stance against illegal betting

The Ministry's advisory reiterates concerns previously expressed by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) regarding the endorsement of betting and gambling platforms by public figures.

By taking a firm stance against the promotion of illegal betting and gambling activities, the government aims to protect consumers, particularly the youth, from the potential financial and socio-economic harms associated with these activities.