Study finds 55% reduction in advertising on IPR-infringing websites

A new study conducted by the European Union’s Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) found a 55% reduction to 8% in advertising from major gambling brands on websites and mobile apps which infringe on intellectual property rights (IPR) in the EU, despite overall advertising from all sectors increasing by 26%.

This study analyzed the amount and type of online advertising found on IPR-infringing websites and app in the EU, where legitimate brands can unintentionally sometimes place advertising because of the “very complex internet advertising ecosystem”. In this case, it can be confusing for consumers and mislead them to believe that the content provided by these app or websites is legal.

Following the release of the study, the European Gaming & Betting Association (EBGA) has welcomed the progress made in recent years to reduce the placement of advertising from major gambling brands, including its members, on these websites and apps. “I’m pleased to see consistent and significant, year-on-year progress by Europe’s major gambling brands, including our members, to reduce the placement of advertising on IPR-infringing websites and app, said Maarteen Haijer, Secretary General, EGBA. But there is still more work to do, and we encourage Europe’s gambling operators and their advertising affiliates to play their part by ensuring their advertising and its placement is conducted in a responsible way. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the European Commission and other stakeholders, at EU-level, to reduce IPR-infringing online advertising”.