YouTube Says New Policy Doesn’t Ban All Crypto Content, Despite Uproar From Creators

YouTube recently said it will extend its ban on online gaming content to prohibit redirecting viewers to sites that offer “additional items that have a monetary value,” including video game skins, cosmetics, and NFTs. The change will take effect on November 17.

The announcement led to uproar throughout the crypto community, as the creators anticipated that this would result in a general ban on crypto content, especially crypto game content. However, a YouTube spokesperson confirmed Decrypt that this will not be the case.

“Content that shows video game skins or cosmetics creators earn in games or general discussions about items with real monetary value, such as NFTs, will not be affected by this update,” the Google company said.

The concern has been due to some elements of the modern game often compared to a casino or a gambling experience. Open case Counter-Strike 2, for example, have often been compared to toys. In the crypto game, the allegation of the game is intensified because the in-game items can be sold in the open market for cryptocurrency. YouTube has confirmed Decrypt that this content style will not be affected.

Crypto content creator Gorilla said Decrypt that he can understand how the trading of NFT and meme coins – which are notorious for their volatility – could be considered “gambling” in the eyes of some.

However, YouTube’s strengthening of its online gaming policy is specifically aimed at gaming sites, not legitimate crypto gaming experiences. It seems that this move was made in response to the rise of casino sites as sponsors among content creators. Often, these sites will reward users with more than just cash, but also crypto tokens, NFTs, and more.

That said, “Google certified” casino sites will not be affected by the ban. Google does not publish a public list of certified gaming sites, but operators may to apply for certification if they meet specific requirements of the region-as in the United States, where online games can only address specific states.

“We’ve seen the growth of [Counter-Strike] Opening cases and more online gaming content from casinos on social media, which I think should have mature guidelines and follow industry standards to protect consumers and minor audiences,” pseudonym creator of crypto gaming content. Iceyyy said Decrypt. “I think this is reasonable and healthy [policy] improve, and I don’t think normal crypto content will be largely affected.”

Fortunately for the crypto gaming faithful, it seems that YouTube’s latest policy update will have no impact on their favorite content creators, as long as they don’t promise viewers that they can get rich quick.

“As always, content that promises guaranteed returns may be removed, regardless of whether the game site or application has been certified by Google,” added the YouTube spokesperson. “Content that does not violate our Community Guidelines, but still features depictions or promotions of certified online gaming sites or applications, will still be age-restricted.”