Meta continues gambling ads in 13 countries despite legal bans
Meta reportedly continued to allow online gambling advertisements in at least 13 countries where the activity is prohibited, according to an analysis published on 16 January 2026. In India, the analysis found at least 140 illegal gambling ads remained active in December, despite a ban on real-money betting and its social-media advertising taking effect in August 2025.
Operators and regulators face evidence of illegal gambling advertising continuing on a major social platform despite national prohibitions.