Now Google opens up the web to gamblers - Scotsman

[I Heart Gambling Online]

Published Date: 18 October 2008
By Neil Lancefield
GAMBLING websites can now advertise on the internet search engine Google.

The move, which came into force yesterday, means bookmakers and casinos can target internet users in Britain when they type specific words into the prompt panel.

The timing of the decision has angered politicians and religious groups.

Google insisted ads would be accepted only from companies regulated in Britain or Europe. It also said parents could use safety filters to prevent children seeing the ads as they would be classified as "non-family safe".

The decision comes after TV advertising restrictions on bookmakers, casinos and online gambling sites were lifted by the government last year. Google will maintain its ban on gambling ads on the rest of its worldwide sites.

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