Gambling Operators’ Use of Advertising Strategies on Social Media and Their Effects: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Purpose of Review Social media offer gambling operators an attractive channel for connecting with gamblers and promoting their products. The aim of the present study is to review the recent literature to summarise the latest findings on marketing strategies of gambling operators, and their effects, with particular focus on social media. Recent Findings A systematic review on gambling advertising in social media has been conducted, taking into account English-language journal articles from 2021 onwards, which include primary data collection. Searching three data bases, a total number of 12 studies from peer-reviewed journals were identified. Gambling advertising has an enormous reach, including esports sponsorship and a surge in popularity on streaming platforms, which raises concerns about the protection of gamblers in general and of vulnerable groups in particular. The studies identify individual advertising strategies and investigate the influence of incentives and tips on gambling behaviour. Gaps in the current literature include evidence from certain regions or countries, research into communication strategies on individual social media platforms, and questions about the effectiveness of regulatory measures regarding gambling advertising. Summary Gambling operators flexibly adapt their advertising strategies to the surrounding conditions. This appears to be problematic, as the intensity and complexity of gambling advertising increases at the same time as the boundaries between advertising and seemingly neutral content blur. Vulnerable groups, especially children and adolescents, are at special risk, because advertising on social media is particularly attractive for them, while protection mechanisms such as age limits are often missing or being ignored.

Navigating the digital age: The need for online‐specific gambling marketing regulations

“…They also create new opportunities to influence consumers without their cognition [14]. Brands can tailor advertisements to individuals based on their age, interests and online behaviour, presenting concerns about the targeting of vulnerable audiences [15,16]. However, unlike television broadcasts, where adverts can be recorded and kept for post hoc investigation online ads often vanish after a brief periodcreating a 'dark space' where many ads go unnoticed and unchecked [3].…”

“…Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are facilitating the rapid production of ads at almost zero cost, potentially leading to an exponential increase in advertising volume. This unprecedented volume not only overwhelms (vulnerable) consumers, but also creates serious enforcement challenges, for a regulator who is tasked with monitoring and regulating gambling advertising to avoid harm [16].…”