ROMANIA INTRODUCES STRICTER GAMBLING ADVERTISING REGULATIONS TO PROTECT MINORS AND ENSURE RESPONSIBLE MARKETING
Romania’s National Gambling Authority has tightened the rules on gambling promotion to protect underage audiences. With social media and YouTube now at the heart of digital marketing, the new measures send a clear signal that regulators are stepping up their oversight of how operators and affiliates present gambling online.
The Authority now requires all gambling-related posts, videos and stories, whether shared by operators, affiliates or influencers, to carry an 18+ age restriction. Direct links to gambling sites can no longer be shared freely. Any link must be protected by access controls designed to prevent minors from reaching gambling platforms. Inspections are already under way and regulators have warned that fines or legal action will follow if breaches are uncovered.
These steps build on a well-established regulatory framework. Romania has long enforced rules through GEO 20/2013, which protects vulnerable groups and ensures transparency in gambling activities, and GEO 77/2009, which governs advertising safeguards. From October, Decision no. 573/2025 will add a further layer of control by banning the use of public figures, athletes and cultural personalities in gambling adverts. This change will cut the link between celebrity appeal and gambling, a tactic that has previously proved persuasive among younger audiences.
For operators, affiliates and influencers, this is more than a compliance checklist. It is a reminder that responsible marketing is now central to maintaining trust. Regulators across Europe are watching how online gambling promotion evolves and Romania’s move may influence neighbouring markets. Brands that fail to adapt risk both penalties and reputational damage, while those that respond proactively will be better positioned as regulations tighten across the continent.
A petitions portal and a WhatsApp channel have been set up for citizens to report potential breaches, reinforcing a shared responsibility model that gives civil society a direct role in safeguarding minors.
Operators should begin by reviewing their digital channels to ensure every piece of content includes clear age restrictions and complies with the new standards. Contracts with influencers and affiliates need to reflect these obligations and include consequences for non-compliance. Any unrestricted links to gambling sites should be removed or replaced with access-controlled pages. Marketing teams would do well to plan new campaigns now to avoid using celebrities or athletes ahead of the October changes, and to provide training so staff understand both the current rules and the wider trend toward stricter oversight.
