Google bans ‘Social Plus’ sweepstakes games amid growing legal crackdowns
The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) has rebranded online sweepstakes as 'Social Plus'. However, Google has recently removed Social Plus from its list of permissible social casino gaming advertisements due to a policy update. Social Plus refers to social gaming websites and apps that are free to play but offer purchases for a secondary digital currency to win cash prizes. SGLA members have agreed to implement strict regulations, including allowing only players aged 21 and up, providing responsible gameplay tools, and using robust data and financial security safeguards. The term 'Social Plus' was introduced by Sean Ostrow, managing director of SGLA, to represent online social games with sweepstakes promotions. The SGLA remains committed to advocating for fair regulatory frameworks. However, several states have passed legislation banning sweepstakes casinos, and gaming regulators have ordered Social Plus companies to cease operations within their jurisdictions. Critics argue that Social Plus websites are illegal gambling enterprises disguised as sweepstakes promotions. The SGLA contends that commercial and tribal gaming industries are spreading misinformation about Social Plus in a smear campaign. Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill banning online sweepstakes promotions that allow improved odds of winning by purchase. While the SGLA has renamed online sweepstakes as 'Social Plus' and agreed to implement strict regulations, the future of this industry remains uncertain. Several states have banned sweepstakes casinos, and critics argue that Social Plus websites are illegal gambling enterprises. The SGLA contends that misinformation is being spread by competing industries, and they remain committed to advocating for fair regulatory frameworks.
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