Government warns social media influencers not to endorse offshore online betting and gambling

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory to endorsers and influencers on social media, warning them against promoting offshore online betting and gambling platforms. The ministry highlighted the financial and socio-economic implications of such advertisements, especially on the youth. Non-compliance may result in penalties under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

The advisory also extends to online advertisement intermediaries, urging them not to target Indian audiences with promotional content related to online betting and gambling. Social media platforms are advised to conduct awareness campaigns to discourage the publishing of such content. The ministry’s directive aligns with the concerns raised by the Central Consumer Protection Authority regarding endorsements of betting/gambling platforms by celebrities and influencers.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in New Delhi has issued a stern warning to social media influencers and endorsers regarding the promotion of offshore online betting and gambling platforms. The advisory emphasizes the negative impact of such advertisements on consumers, particularly the youth, and threatens penalties for non-compliance under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Additionally, online advertisement intermediaries are advised against targeting the Indian audience with such content.

Furthermore, social media platforms are instructed to educate their users on refraining from sharing content related to online betting and gambling. The advisory echoes the concerns expressed by the Central Consumer Protection Authority earlier this month, cautioning against endorsements of betting activities by celebrities and influencers. Any direct or indirect advertisement or endorsement of gambling platforms will face rigorous scrutiny as per the advisory.