Instagram is under lock and key: Simbochka and other bloggers paid for casino advertising
20 August 20:43
on August 20, 2025, it became known that Meta, in cooperation with the newly created state agency PlayCity, blocked seven Instagram accounts, including the popular blogger Simbochka. The reason was systematic violations of gambling advertising rules. This was reported by the Ministry of Digital Transformation, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
What happened
According to the press services of PlayCity and the Ministry of Digital Transformation, the blocked accounts regularly published stories with videos of “easy wins” in casinos, accompanied by active links to gaming platforms. According to the representatives of the Ministry of Digital Transformation, such content was aimed at a wide audience, including minors, which is a gross violation of the current legislation.
“Among those blocked are news channels, influencers, and blogger Simbochka, who systematically advertised casinos to an audience of millions,” the Ministry of Digital Transformation reported.
What rules were violated
PlayCity emphasizes that gambling advertising in Ukraine must meet strict requirements:
- It is allowed only on certain platforms: nightly TV broadcasts, websites and apps of licensed organizers.
- Content must be clearly labeled as 21 .
- Only legal brands with a Ukrainian license can be advertised.
- Prohibited:
- show minors, military personnel, doctors, volunteers;
- promise “easy money”;
- use hidden advertising;
- show bonuses or calls to play;
- involve famous people other than athletes.
- At least 15% of the advertising message should contain a warning about the risks of gambling addiction.
What is PlayCity?
The newly created PlayCity agency started working in July 2025, replacing the liquidated Commission for Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (CRGL). Its function is to implement state policy in the field of gambling and lotteries. The agency is coordinated by the government through Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov.
Implications for bloggers
The blocking of accounts has become a signal to Ukrainian influencers: gambling advertising is not just commercial cooperation, but an area with a clear legal framework. Violation of the rules can lead not only to the loss of an account but also to legal liability.
This case is the first large-scale example of Meta’s cooperation with Ukrainian regulators in the field of digital security and advertising ethics
