YouTube’s ‘Gambling’ Update Triggers Crypto Concerns: What is Actually Changing?

Metaverse Planet November 6, 2025Last Updated: November 6, 2025

3 minutes read

YouTube’s new gambling policy, set to take effect on November 17, 2025, initially raised fears that NFT and Web3 gaming content could be classified as gambling violations.

This policy update responds to growing advertiser concerns regarding gambling-related content, while also addressing the evolving value of digital goods. While Web3 creators worry about the potential impact on their revenue from content, YouTube is attempting to balance these regulations with creator freedom.

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YouTube Update Heightens Concerns for Crypto Creators

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On October 28, 2025, YouTube announced significant updates to its Community Guidelines to more effectively manage online gambling and graphic violence in gaming.

The new policy prohibits content that directs viewers to uncertified gambling sites or apps. Crucially, it now also encompasses gambling involving digital goods such as video game skins, cosmetics, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

This announcement quickly generated anxiety among NFT and Web3 game content creators. Many believed the updated guidelines would result in a ban on content showcasing blockchain-based digital assets, which play a vital role in the gaming NFT market.

Research indicates that gaming NFTs reached a value of $4.8 billion in 2024 and are expected to grow at an annual rate of 24.8% until 2034.

Creator LeevaiNFT expressed his disappointment on X (Twitter), stating that the policy harmed Web3 gaming and Counter-Strike skins. His post resonated with creators who rely on YouTube to share and discover NFT content.

“YouTube’s new policy is a direct assault on Web3 gaming and CS skins. Starting Nov 17th, videos promoting NFTs with real value, crypto tokens, or in-game skins will be flagged as a gambling violation. End of an era… I discovered NFTs via YT,” he lamented.

The main issue for creators is how YouTube will determine the difference between “promoting” digital goods and merely “showing” them in content. This applied ambiguity has introduced new risks for those whose livelihood depends on crypto and Web3 gaming videos.

YouTube Defines the Boundaries for NFT and Gaming Content

Following the feedback, a YouTube spokesperson stated to the media that:

Showing video game skins or NFTs is still permitted under the new rules.
The key factor is whether the content promotes gambling-style gameplay and promises of financial return.
Educational videos about blockchain technology, game reviews, or discussions that do not direct users to gambling platforms remain outside the scope of the policy.
Social gambling-style content will be age-restricted, even without real value exchange.
Videos uploaded before November 17, 2025, that violate the new guidelines may be removed or age-restricted, but affected accounts will not receive a warning. Creators were encouraged to use YouTube’s editing tools to ensure compliance before the deadline.

YouTube’s targeted enforcement focuses on content that uses digital goods with real-world value—such as skins or NFTs—in gambling on third-party sites or in gambling-like gameplay. A September 2025 review by the UK government also supported regulatory oversight for tradable, real-world value in-game items.

Conversely, Google’s system allows certified gambling operators to advertise under region-specific requirements. This adds a layer of complexity, with some creators arguing that legal gambling advertisers are given an advantage while independent content producers face tighter controls.

Advertiser Pressure and the Future of Web3 Content

Many users view the update not as anti-crypto but as being linked to advertiser demands. One user on X believes that disabling monetization could solve the issues. This stems from large advertisers objecting to their ads being shown alongside gambling-related videos.

“Just disable monetization and it’s over. This is mostly about large advertisers complaining about their ads showing up on gambling content videos,” a crypto YouTuber stated.

This perspective aligns with broader industry trends where platforms are under increasing pressure to ensure brand safety, especially with content related to unregulated or high-risk financial activities.

However, for those consistently producing high-quality Web3 and gaming content, this policy represents a significant shift in their revenue strategies.

LeevaiNFT acknowledged the influence of advertisers but questioned the fairness toward creators producing legal content. He also critically assessed whether YouTube monetization is worth the additional regulatory challenges, particularly when platforms like TikTok might offer greater flexibility.

As the November 17, 2025, implementation date approaches, Web3 creators must decide whether to adapt their content, experiment with other platforms like TikTok, or risk losing revenue. While creators have some guidelines, the uncertainty regarding enforcement continues to present challenges for the community.

Would you like me to find the specific Made by Google podcast episode mentioned in the previous text or search for more details on YouTube’s updated gambling policy?