Ukraine has intensified its crackdown on illegal gambling, recently targeting Instagram accounts used to promote unauthorized online casinos. Despite the ongoing war in the east, the country has stepped up regulatory efforts. These measures aim to protect its citizens and safeguard national funds from illicit activity.
In recent years, Ukraine dismantled its previous gambling regulator, KRAIL, and introduced PlayCity as the new oversight authority. Alongside this structural change, the country developed a sophisticated real-time monitoring system to track gambling transactions. This ensures greater transparency and enforcement. Today, PlayCity is also focusing on social media platforms. Illegal gambling operators have increasingly advertised their services to a wide audience there.
Authorities are particularly concerned that many of these websites are linked to Russia. They funnel funds from ordinary Ukrainians into operations supporting the war effort. PlayCity confirmed in a statement on its Telegram channel that it had blocked multiple Instagram accounts distributing illegal gambling ads. The targets included popular influencers Kolia Zalipukha, Olia Filova, and over 20 others. They encouraged their followers to participate in online casinos.
PlayCity noted that many influencers pretended to win money to entice users to gamble. The regulator described this tactic as manipulative and misleading advertising. This type of promotion violates Ukrainian law. It prompted the suspension of these accounts and sent a clear warning to other potential offenders.
The agency emphasized that its top priority is to create a safe and secure environment for gambling participants. It is also actively curbing unlawful activity. By extending oversight to social media, Ukraine is closing loopholes exploited by illegal operators. The move also helps prevent citizens from being misled and protects funds from being diverted to hostile entities. PlayCity’s actions highlight the country’s commitment to maintaining a regulated and transparent gambling market, even amid the ongoing challenges posed by the conflict.
