The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) on Wednesday asked celebrities and social media influencers not to endorse or promote illegal betting and gambling activities. Strict action would be taken against those who carry out such promotions, it said.
In a statement, the CCPA said it has become aware that betting platforms employ celebrities and social media influencers to support and promote betting activities.
It was pointed out that celebrity endorsements create the impression that online gambling and betting is acceptable. “In most states, engaging in the promotion or promotion of online gambling and betting makes you unlawful and liable for engaging in illegal activities. Therefore, celebrities and influencers are advised not to support and promote illegal betting and gambling activities,” the advisory continues.
In the past, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry has issued several advisories warning publishers and digital platforms against running advertisements related to betting or gambling.
The CCPA opinion reiterated that betting and gambling are prohibited under the Public Gaming Act of 1867 and are considered illegal in most regions of the country. Therefore, it warned that advertising or promoting online betting platforms and apps promotes an activity that is “overwhelmingly prohibited”.
“Despite this, online betting platforms and apps continue to advertise betting and gambling directly or under the guise of gambling. Supporting such activities has significant financial and socioeconomic impacts, particularly for youth,” the CCPA advisory states.
In addition, it noted that the 2022 Guidelines for Prevention of Deceptive Advertising and Recommendations on Deceptive Advertising “categorically prohibits advertising of any product or service that is prohibited under applicable law.”
“If any violation of the guidelines is found, strict action under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 will be initiated against those involved, including manufacturers, advertisers, publishers, intermediaries, social media platforms, endorsers and other relevant stakeholders,” the CCPA stated.
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