Google Ads October policy updates: in-account gambling certification, YouTube Masthead for gambling, Colombia lottery, Connecticut prediction markets
Google posted several gambling-related advertising policy updates in its policy change log in October 2026. From October 2026, some advertisers can apply for online gambling certification directly in their Google Ads account (Admin > Policy > Account), rolling out gradually; the Help Center route remains and existing certifications are unaffected (posted October 15). From October 21, 2026, YouTube Masthead ads are allowed for advertisers certified for online gambling, extending the existing sports betting allowance (posted October 7). From October 21, 2026, online lottery ads are allowed in Colombia for entities authorized by the CNJSA, with Google certification required (posted October 5). Effective October 7, 2026, the US prediction markets policy prohibits ads for prediction market contracts targeting Connecticut.
Impact
Regulated gambling advertisers gain a premium YouTube placement and a simpler certification path, while Colombia opens to online lottery advertising. Agencies running prediction market campaigns in the US must exclude Connecticut immediately to avoid disapprovals.
Recommendations
- Exclude Connecticut from any prediction market campaigns now
- For certified gambling clients, evaluate YouTube Masthead bookings from October 21
- Check whether the in-account certification option is visible for gambling clients and use it for new applications
- For Colombian lottery clients, prepare CNJSA authorization and apply for Google certification
Source: Google Advertising Policies Help