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Rules and licensingMeta faces heavy pressure over illegal gambling ads
European regulators and trade bodies demand stricter ad checks on social media platforms.
Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 2 November 2026
A fresh European study highlights major flaws in how big tech companies verify online advertisers. Researchers found that criminal groups exploit these platforms to run fraudulent campaigns, including unverified betting sites.
Flaws in ad verification systems
The report shows that major tech firms regularly let unlicensed betting operators target users in restricted regions. Fake apps also slip past checks and appear inside official app stores. Google has already tightened its certification rules to ensure only compliant brands can run promotions.
Dutch trade body takes action
Meta remains under intense scrutiny after regulators spotted thousands of illegal betting promotions on Facebook and Instagram. The Dutch trade group Vnlok wants tighter rules and stronger detection methods for covert gambling campaigns. Vnlok argues that tech giants must face greater responsibility under current digital service laws.
Global pressure keeps growing
Authorities in other regions are also demanding better cooperation from social media giants. Regulators want tech companies to block illegal content and verify local licenses before letting operators spend money on ads. Some platforms have started working with licensed bookmakers to weed out bad actors.
Punters should stick to fully licensed bookmakers and avoid unknown betting sites found on social media.