Swedish Twitch broadcasters cease unlawful betting advertisements
The Swedish Gambling Authority, Spelinspektionen, has been cracking down on influencers who peddle illegal gambling via digital platforms, with Twitch being a prime target. These internet personalities were found breaking the law by promoting gambling operators without a license, an offense punishable under Sweden's Gambling Act 2018:1138.
Calling Time on Illegal Gambling Promotion
In a recent announcement, Spelinspektionen outlined that it had been keeping an eye on influencers who used online channels to advertise illegal gambling activities. Given that marketing such dodgy deals is illegal, and the fact that a considerable portion of Twitch's viewership consists of minors and youth, the gambling regulators took matters into their own hands.
Following the scrutiny, these influencers fessed up and ceased endorsing unlicensed gambling operators. The regulator's statement read, "the influencers who have been under our watchful eye have, following the supervision of the Swedish Gambling Authority, ceased marketing illegal gambling."
Keeping a Sharp Eye Out
The supervision of influencers and the fight against the promotion and marketing of illegal gambling are a significant part of Spelinspektionen's 2025 operational plan. As well as restricting and preventing illegal gambling promotion, the regulator focuses on reducing the exposure of children and young people to gambling.
"The Swedish Gambling Authority will also continue to supervise influencers and other actors who conduct or promote illegal gambling under the Gambling Act," the regulator mentioned. The agency holds the power to implement fines or take other administrative actions against gambling operators or individuals in the sector if they violate the law.
While the influencers in question have stopped promoting illegal gambling activities, Spelinspektionen opted not to slap them with fines or any other sanctions. This leniency may be due to a recent court ruling in Sweden that sided with Svenska Spel in a lawsuit involving a SEK 100m fine.
In the past, three operators in Sweden have received fines and warnings from the country's gambling watchdog, wracking up nearly SEK 19m ($2m) in total. So, despite the current reprieve, these influencers had better keep their noses clean, as Spelinspektionen hasn't ruled out stronger legal actions in the future if compliance isn't maintained.
Image credit: Pixabay.com
Takeaways:- Under Swedish law, it's illegal to market or promote gambling services to Swedish consumers by any operator lacking a valid Swedish license.- Spelinspektionen keeps a close watch on digital platforms, especially Twitch, to keep a lid on these violations.- First-time offenders who are found promoting illegal gambling activities will be mandated to stop, but Spelinspektionen reserves the right to pursue more severe penalties if compliance isn't maintained.
The Swedish Gambling Authority is increasing its focus on technology-based platforms and influencers, particularly those on Twitch, to limit the promotion of unlicensed gambling activities, such as casino-and-gambling services, under the Gambling Act 2018:1138.
Spelinspektionen's stance is clear: ongoing supervision and intervention will continue to be applied to influencers and actors involved in casino-and-gambling, ensuring they do not violate the law or engage in activities that may expose children and youth to gambling.
