YouTube and PlayCity Agency Crack Down on Illegal Gambling Ads

PlayCity and YouTube Join Forces

According to Главком: The Ukrainian state agency PlayCity has initiated a partnership with the YouTube video platform to identify and block illegal gambling advertisements. This collaboration has already yielded its first results: one channel with over 3,000 subscribers has been blocked, and videos containing illegal online casino ads have been removed from a channel with an audience exceeding 133,000 subscribers. This move targets a persistent issue of unregulated gambling promotion on major social platforms.

As reported by the PlayCity press service, 'we have begun cooperation with the YouTube platform for faster response and blocking of illegal gambling advertising.'

New Lottery Operator Licensing Framework

In a separate regulatory development, PlayCity concluded an open competition for licensing lottery operators on January 27, 2026. This marks a significant step, as Ukraine's lottery market had operated for over a decade without proper oversight. The new licensing terms clearly distinguish lottery activities from gambling, aiming to ensure more transparent and secure operations in this sector.

All lottery operators are now required to maintain electronic reporting, which will facilitate better monitoring and control of their activities. Furthermore, each lottery ticket and terminal will feature a unique QR code to verify the legality of the sale. These innovations are designed to increase consumer trust in the lottery market and prevent fraud.

The cooperation between PlayCity and YouTube represents a crucial advance in combating illegal gambling ads, enabling swift action against violations and protecting consumers from potential risks. Concurrently, the licensing of lottery operators and the introduction of new rules will bring greater transparency to the sector, potentially fostering the development of a legitimate gambling market in Ukraine.