Social media platforms are met with resistance from Norway over the display of online gambling advertisements
In Norway, the promotion of online gambling content on social media platforms is subject to very strict regulations, largely due to the country's stringent overall gambling laws.
The Norwegian Gambling Authority (Lotteritilsynet) has declared a zero-tolerance stance towards social media platforms promoting online gambling content and live streams. This move comes in response to the increasing number of influencers skirting the law, prompting continued monitoring and inspections.
The authority has reminded broadcasting platforms of Norway's Broadcasting Act, which prohibits gambling promotion unless by one of the two available monopolies, Rikstoto or Norsk Tipping. Norsk Tipping, the state-sanctioned monopoly operator, is the only legal entity allowed to advertise gambling products within Norway.
The advertising prohibition applies to all Internet gambling advertising, and the authority enforces these restrictions to safeguard consumers and uphold the monopoly system. Only Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto (horse betting) are permitted to offer gambling. Advertising by unlicensed or offshore operators is not allowed, including online promotion on social media.
The revised Money Gambling Act empowers Lottstift, the Norwegian Gambling Authority, to take regulatory action against businesses that violate these rules. Lottstift has instructed Tiergarten Marketing Ltd, the operator of Schpell.com, a popular content platform, to halt all marketing activities within Norway.
Recently, Schpell.com violated Norwegian legislation by showcasing influencers promoting online casino games. The illicit streams were disseminated on Schpell.com and various live-streaming platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Kick.
Monica Alisøy Kjelsnes, the director of Lottstift, emphasized the targeting of a young audience in live streams promoting unlicensed casinos. She stated that the authority's actions are a response to Schpell.com's non-compliance with the strict gambling advertising regulations outlined by Norwegian authorities.
Lottstift has issued two cease-and-desist warnings, sending written notices to Baris Entertainment AS and Viken Underholdning AS. The businesses must comply by February 20 or risk potential fines and non-compliance violation fees.
This approach aligns with a global trend, as seen in Brazil's similar measure against social media influencers advertising unregulated gambling last December. The Norwegian Gambling Authority oversees both state-controlled and private gaming, including Lottstift, to ensure a safe and fair gaming environment for all Norwegian citizens.
The Norwegian Gambling Authority (Lotteritilsynet), in line with gambling trends, has taken a tough stand against social media platforms promoting online casino-and-gambling content, owing to the increasing number of influencers flouting the law. This includes issuing cease-and-desist warnings to businesses, such as Baris Entertainment AS and Viken Underholdning AS, for non-compliance with gambling-trends regulations outlined by the Norwegian authorities.
