PlayCity Launches Tool to Report Illegal Gambling Ads

PlayCity has rolled out a new digital tool that allows the public to report illegal gambling advertisements through its official website, aiming to simplify the complaint process and reduce reliance on manual paperwork.

The system enables users to select where the advertisement appeared, including social media, websites, television, radio, outdoor placements or other channels. Supporting materials such as links, screenshots or video recordings can then be uploaded via a short submission form.

Once a report is submitted, all data is stored automatically and users receive email notifications tracking the progress of their complaint. The platform also addresses disappearing content, such as social media stories, by instantly saving any submitted links so they remain accessible for review after removal.

In its announcement, PlayCity said the initiative forms part of its broader effort to digitize regulatory processes and improve interaction with the public.

Enforcement and Penalties

Reports submitted through the platform are first assessed to determine whether they breach gambling advertising rules. If violations are confirmed, PlayCity can request that platforms remove the content. Pages that repeatedly publish illegal advertisements may face further action, including potential shutdown.

In cases where the responsible parties cannot be identified, law enforcement agencies may be involved to support investigations.

The regulator also has the authority to impose fines of up to ₴5,188,200 (around $120,000) for breaches related to illegal gambling promotion.

Platform Cooperation

PlayCity is working with major digital platforms, including Meta, Google, TikTok, Twitch, Viber and YouTube, to limit the spread of unlawful gambling content. Recently, the regulator confirmed cooperation with YouTube, which led to the removal of gambling-related material, including the shutdown of a channel with more than 3,000 subscribers and the deletion of a video from a channel exceeding 133,000 subscribers.

Regulatory Background

PlayCity was established in June 2025, replacing the former Gambling and Lotteries Commission (KRAIL), which had been dissolved due to delays in licensing processes and outdated systems.

Since its launch, the regulator has issued nearly ₴80 million (around $1.8 million) in fines related to illegal gambling activity. It has also transitioned licensing procedures to a fully digital format through the Diia platform, reflecting a broader push toward modernization in the sector.