Regulatory bodies in the US and UK are introducing new measures for the gambling industry, while Google updates its browser extension policies. These developments affect sportsbooks, sports clubs, and prediction market platforms.
The Facial Recognition to Protect Children Act, proposed by Rep. Josh Gottheimer, mandates facial recognition technology for age verification on online sports betting platforms. The legislation establishes a federal standard to prevent underage gambling, a concern highlighted by reports from states like Tennessee and Iowa.
The system verifies user age without storing personal data, a measure supported by the advocacy group ParentsRISE.
UK Sponsorship and Google Chrome Policies
The UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport has opened a consultation regarding a ban on unlicensed gambling sponsorship in sports. The proposal restricts deals to operators licensed by the British Gambling Commission to ensure market integrity and reduce money-laundering risks. Secondary legislation may classify violations as criminal offenses subject to daily penalties, with exemptions for compliant white label agreements.
Stakeholders may submit feedback until September 9.
Google will prohibit browser extensions promoting real-money prediction markets from the Chrome Web Store starting August 1. This policy update impacts platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket, requiring developers to disclose data usage practices. Extensions offering simulated products without cash prizes remain eligible if clearly labeled.
Google Finance continues to display odds from these platforms despite the new restrictions.
Earlier this year, regulatory scrutiny on prediction markets increased across the US and global markets, prompting stricter data collection rules.