UK Regulators Ban PokerStars Instagram AdThe Advertising Standards Agency Said The Ad Downplayed Risks Of Gambling |
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Advertising regulators in the United Kingdom have nixed a PokerStars social media ad. They argued the company downplayed risks associated with gambling and made it seem like winning money was too easy.
The ad featured YouTubers Rory Jennings and Adam McKola playing a slot challenge on the operator’s online casino. It ran on Dec. 23 on Instagram and showed both starting with £100 and finding significant winnings—McKola with £662 and Jennings with £240.
The UK’s Advertising Standards Agency upheld the ruling that barred the ad. The country’s CAP Code (officially known as the Code of Non-broadcast Advertising and Direct and Promotional Marketing) bans marketing for gambling that condones or encourages “socially irresponsible” gambling that could lead to “financial, social or emotional harm.”
ASA officials pointed to parts of the ad that made gambling seem skill-based or too easy, such as when one of the players blew on his finger for luck and then ended up winning.
“His action of blowing on his finger and pushing the button to win more money gave the impression that luck or simple actions could lead to significant rewards,” the advertising organization noted.
The original ruling came after a single complaint to the agency. The ASA encouraged PokerStars to make sure future ads are not “socially irresponsible or could lead to financial, social or emotional harm.”
Officials from the online poker site have said the ad was mistakenly posted to the brand’s Instagram account and was quickly removed. Staff members were also trained on what type of advertising falls within the country’s standards.
The news comes as many in the gaming industry believe some changes to gambling law could be in the works after the Labour Party won the elections in 2024 and are now in charge of government.
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