Despite the current ban on gambling advertising in Ukraine, online casinos continue to actively promote their services using "gray" schemes.
This is reported by Telegraf, publishing an analysis of the most common methods by which the gambling business bypasses state restrictions.
1. Telegram channels with millions of followers Popular channels such as "Trukha" or "Chomu Tryvoha" regularly publish casino ad inserts, especially during air raids when Ukrainians’ attention is focused on alerts.
2. Pirate video services On unofficial streaming platforms (UA-Kino, UA-Serial), operating through servers outside Ukraine, gambling resource ads appear without any warnings or moderation.
3. Mobile games and apps Many free games are embedded with casino ad blocks. Due to the lack of control by Ukrainian regulators, such ads often reach even minors.
4. Foreign sites, including pornographic resources On adult websites or other foreign sites, gambling ads appear automatically when accessed from Ukrainian IP addresses — targeting works without the participation of Ukrainian services.
5. Fake accounts on social media Casinos use video clips from popular shows or football matches, adding logos and promo codes. For instance, Gorilla Casino was advertised through the ligacmixu.ua account, disguising the ad as fan content.
The state remains powerless According to experts, Ukrainian legislation turned out to be unprepared for new challenges in digital advertising. The state currently does not have effective tools to influence global platforms, and the law banning gambling advertising is effectively ignored.
As a result, online casinos continue to operate in a semi-legal space, profiting from Ukrainian wallets while regulatory authorities remain on the sidelines.