Social media advertisements for online gambling met with opposition from Norway
Norway's gambling market is undergoing a significant shift, with the Norwegian Gambling Authority (Lotteritilsynet) taking action against unauthorized gambling operators and influencers promoting unregulated gambling activities on social media platforms.
According to Monica AlisΓΈy Kjelsnes, the director of Lottstift, the Norwegian gaming and foundation supervision, the focus is on Norwegian consumers, particularly those who are vulnerable, such as the young audience targeted in live streams promoting unlicensed casinos.
This approach mirrors a global trend, as seen in Brazil's similar measure against social media influencers advertising unregulated gambling last December. However, Norway's regulations specifically restrict online gambling to only state-controlled operators β Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto β with any unlicensed online gambling sites actively blocked by Lotteritilsynet.
Despite these measures, some influencers continue to skirt the law, prompting ongoing monitoring and inspections. In response, Lottstift has issued cease-and-desist warnings to Baris Entertainment AS and Viken Underholdning AS, allegedly linked to illegal gambling through influencers.
Lottstift has also directed social media platforms to ensure compliance with current advertising regulations regarding Norwegian influencer content. Under the revised Money Gambling Act, Lottstift has instructed Tiergarten Marketing Ltd to halt marketing activities for Schpell.com within Norway due to non-compliance with gambling advertising regulations.
It is essential to note that the regulatory framework in Norway primarily targets gambling offers and advertisements, rather than specifying detailed controls on social media live streams or content. However, unlicensed gambling promotion could be implicated under general advertising and gambling laws enforced by Lotteritilsynet.
If precise and current detailed rules regarding online gambling content or live streaming restrictions on social media platforms in Norway are needed, it would be advisable to consult the official Norwegian Gambling Authority (Lotteritilsynet) or relevant legal texts, as the available sources focus primarily on the licensing and operational aspects of gambling rather than media or marketing content regulations.
In summary, Norway is taking a firm stance against unauthorized gambling and its promotion on social media, with Lottstift leading the charge to protect consumers and enforce gambling regulations. As the landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for all parties involved to stay informed and comply with the relevant laws and regulations.
- Given the increasing trend of social media influencers promoting unregulated gambling activities, Lottstift has directed social media platforms to ensure compliance with current advertising regulations regarding Norwegian influencer content.
- In addition to enforcing gambling regulations within the Norwegian market, Lottstift has also emphasized the importance of responsible gambling, particularly in light of online casino-and-gambling trends.
