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The Bangladesh online gambling ban marks a major escalation in the government’s effort to control illegal online activities.
Under a new zero-tolerance policy, authorities have vowed to eliminate gambling, pornography, and unethical advertising, aiming to create a “safe and youth-friendly” cyberspace across the country.
Bangladesh online gambling ban reinforced under Cyber Security Act 2025
The new directive expands the government’s power to monitor, restrict, and penalise digital violations.
Announced through the Press Information Department (PID) on 16 October, the policy falls under both the Cyber Security Act 2025 and the Pornography Control Act 2012. It prohibits newspapers, websites, broadcasters, and digital agencies from promoting or displaying gambling or adult content on any online platform.
Moreover, the ban includes advertising through third-party networks such as Google AdSense, mobile apps, and online portals. Any individual or company found breaching these rules will face immediate legal consequences under the Cyber Security Act.
For more context on the country’s evolving framework, see our gambling regulation in Bangladesh coverage.
NCSA to enforce Bangladesh online gambling ban
The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) will lead enforcement in collaboration with several state bodies, including the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
Together, they will intensify monitoring across all digital channels. The NCSA will have authority to block websites, impose fines, or take legal action against those violating the ban. Furthermore, internet service providers, mobile operators, and advertising networks such as Meta Ads and Google AdSense have been instructed to remove or filter prohibited material.
Public figures warned under Bangladesh online gambling ban
Celebrities, influencers, and media professionals are urged to avoid promoting gambling or adult content in any form.
The government has directly appealed to public figures to stop endorsing or appearing in gambling-related campaigns. This step aims to protect younger audiences and reduce the social normalisation of betting behaviour online.
Bangladesh strengthens digital oversight amid wider crackdown
The new Bangladesh online gambling ban forms part of a broader national campaign to curb illegal betting and digital crime.
Earlier this week, the NCSA issued a non-compliance notice to ESPNcricinfo over alleged advertising and tax breaches. In parallel, authorities launched investigations against more than 1,000 mobile agents suspected of supporting illegal online betting.
These measures underline the government’s growing commitment to digital accountability and stricter content control. For a detailed analysis of the country’s market and enforcement landscape, read the Bangladesh iGaming market research report (2025).
But as enforcement expands, will it spark a new wave of challenges for tech platforms and advertisers operating in Bangladesh?
Source: Gambling Insider
