Indian Government Warns Social Media Influencers Against Promoting Betting Apps and Gambling

Indian Government Warns Social Media Influencers Against Promoting Betting Apps and Gambling

Synopsis (99 words): The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issues a stern warning to social media influencers, cautioning against endorsing offshore online betting and gambling platforms. The advisory, aimed at mitigating financial and socio-economic risks, instructs influencers to refrain from promoting these platforms, including surrogate advertisements, targeting Indian audiences. Non-compliance may result in legal proceedings under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with penalties including post or account removal and further legal action. Leveraging Section 79 of the IT Act, intermediaries are obligated to promptly remove unlawful content. The government aims to educate users and discourage the promotion of illegal betting and gambling activities, prioritizing consumer protection.

Key Points:

• Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issues warning against endorsing offshore betting and gambling platforms.
• Influencers instructed to avoid promoting these platforms, including surrogate advertisements.
• Non-compliance may lead to legal proceedings under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
• Intermediaries obligated to remove unlawful content under Section 79 of the IT Act.
• Government aims to educate users and discourage promotion of illegal activities.
• Advisory aligns with concerns expressed by Central Consumer Protection Authority.
• Prioritization of consumer protection, particularly for youth, against financial and socio-economic risks.
• Unified stance against illegal betting and gambling activities emphasized by the government.
• Measures aimed at safeguarding consumers and promoting responsible social media conduct.
• Advisory underscores the government's commitment to regulatory oversight in the digital sphere.