Google and Twitch Fined Over Gambling Ads in Italy

The Italian Authority for the Guarantee of Communications (Agcom) has imposed significant fines on both Google and Twitch, amounting to more than €3 million (US$3.23 million). This penalty stems from violations of regulations prohibiting the promotion of gambling in the country.

YouTube, operated by Google, is facing the largest fine of €2.25 million (US$2.42 million), while Twitch, despite attempting to distance itself from hosting gambling content, is obligated to pay a penalty of €900,000 (US$970,470).

This isn't the first instance of Agcom taking action against Google. The communications and advertising watchdog had previously imposed a €1.45 million (US$1.47 million) fine a year and a half ago, but the fine was overturned by a court in September.

The investigations by Agcom, prompted by numerous complaints, targeted Google's YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok. The regulatory body identified over 80 YouTube and Twitch channels featuring more than 20,000 videos promoting slot machines, games of chance, sports betting, and scratch-off cards.

Both companies were held responsible as owners of the media disseminating videos published by third parties under specific commercial association contracts. Italy has had a ban on gambling advertising for over four years.

Following Agcom's intervention, the platforms removed the illicit content and were directed to prevent similar publications in the future, in compliance with the European Union's Digital Services Regulation (DSA). This regulation requires tech companies to exercise better oversight of their platforms to prevent exposure to questionable material by children and teens.

TikTok faced the possibility of similar action from Agcom. However, after reviewing the published material, Agcom determined that the gambling content was independent of any agreement between TikTok and the content providers. Consequently, Agcom closed the case without imposing a fine.

Italy is set to implement new regulations starting January 8, targeting major video platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to protect children online. These regulations mandate tech companies to adopt more stringent measures against videos that may pose a danger to underage users, particularly content spreading religious and ethnic hatred and promoting online racial and sexual attacks.

Agcom now has the authority to take decisive action against video platforms in case of violations under these regulatory measures. Importantly, these laws extend to digital platforms based in other EU countries. Before enforcing these rules, the Italian regulator must consult with the national authorities of the respective country. If the actions taken by that authority are deemed insufficient by Agcom, it retains the right to proceed with the takedown request directly with the platform, highlighting Italy's commitment to enhancing child safety on popular video-sharing platforms and holding tech companies accountable for content that may harm or involve illegal activities for young users.