ASCI and the Online Gaming Industry Unite to Protect Consumers against Offshore Betting ads

 In a significant effort to combat illegal betting and gambling ads from offshore companies, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS), All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), and E-Gaming Federation (EGF), starting January 2, 2025. This MoU aims to create a special monitoring cell that will focus on screening and reporting illegal offshore betting and gambling advertisements to the relevant government ministries. The cell will also review real-money gaming advertisements that may violate ASCI's guidelines, strengthening compliance in the Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry.

Since the MoU became effective, ASCI has flagged 413 ads of offshore betting to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and processed 12 real-money gaming ads for possible guideline violations. Previously, ASCI flagged 1336 ads between April 2023 and March 2024, leading to actions being taken to block such ads and platforms. During the same timeframe, 492 cases related to Real Money Gaming were also addressed by ASCI.

Indian state laws ban gambling and offshore betting, making their advertisements illegal. However, online real-money games that rely on skill are generally allowed, so their ads are permissible. Some offshore operators misrepresent themselves as legal gaming firms, highlighting the need to identify and report these advertisements. ASCI has established guidelines requiring real-money gaming ads to be responsible, avoiding depictions of minors and not suggesting winnings as a primary source of income. These ads must also include disclaimers to inform consumers about the risks involved.

Manisha Kapoor, CEO and Secretary General of ASCI, expressed concern about Indian consumers being exposed to numerous ads from unaccountable offshore gambling firms, some involving Indian celebrities. She emphasized the violation of laws resulting from the widespread presence of gambling ads and stated that ASCI aims to report these to regulators. Kapoor also stressed the importance of the gaming industry complying with ASCI’s Code, welcoming the gaming associations' initiative to create a monitoring cell.

Neil Castelino, CEO of FIFS, highlighted their commitment to responsible advertising through adherence to ASCI guidelines and the FIFS Charter. He aims to prevent exposure to illegal platforms while promoting responsible advertising within the RMG industry.

Anuraag Saxena, CEO of EGF, noted the long-standing issues of scams perpetrated by untrustworthy operators, affecting consumers and the industry. He believes the monitoring cell will enhance their ongoing efforts to ensure ethical standards and a trustworthy gaming environment.

Roland Landers, CEO of AIGF, reiterated their commitment to responsible gaming practices and tackling illegal gambling ads. He views the collaboration with ASCI and other federations as a crucial step towards protecting consumers, promoting ethical advertising, and enhancing the credibility of India’s online gaming sector.

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