The United Kingdom’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) halted four wagering promotions from LottoGo EuroMillions, William Hill Vegas, Betfair Bingo, and Dunder. These businesses landed in hot water because their advertisements were appearing in a mobile application called Looney Tunes World of Mayhem, which is clearly intended for children!
The promotions surfaced in February and allowed users to acquire in-game currency by viewing them or completing assignments. The ASA determined this was a major violation as advertising regulations state you cannot direct gambling promotions at anyone below the age of 18, particularly not by slipping them into spaces where youngsters congregate.
LottoGo, Dunder, and Betfair all placed blame on a third-party advertisement firm named Tapjoy, asserting they were responsible for placing the advertisements and that they have ceased collaborating with them. William Hill stated they have banned the application entirely and will no longer advertise there, whether through Tapjoy or any other entity.
Even the application itself received criticism for being categorized as suitable for mature gambling promotions, which they claimed was an error that has been rectified.