Key Moments:
- Authorities have implemented a sweeping online gambling ban under a newly announced zero-tolerance policy
- The Cyber Security Act 2025 extends government control over digital content and advertising related to gambling and adult material
- The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) is coordinating enforcement, targeting offenders across multiple digital channels
Comprehensive Restrictions Introduced Under Cyber Security Act 2025
The Bangladesh government has enacted a robust online gambling ban as part of a broadened initiative targeting illegal internet activities. The move, announced through the Press Information Department (PID) on 16 October, follows the introduction of a zero-tolerance policy meant to foster a “safe and youth-friendly” cyberspace nationwide.
With the support of the new Cyber Security Act 2025 and the Pornography Control Act 2012, the authorities now hold enhanced power to oversee, limit, and penalize a wide array of digital infractions. These measures prohibit all forms of gambling and adult content not only on websites and media outlets, but also across third-party advertising platforms such as Google AdSense, mobile apps, and online portals. Immediate legal actions under the Cyber Security Act are promised for any violations.
Enforcement Oversight Led by National Cyber Security Agency
The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) is taking the lead role in implementing the online gambling ban. Working in conjunction with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), the NCSA will closely monitor digital platforms, block offending websites, impose fines, and pursue legal proceedings where necessary. Internet service providers, mobile operators, and advertising platforms like Meta Ads and Google AdSense have been instructed to actively remove or filter restricted materials.
Direct Warnings Issued to Public Figures and Influencers
Public personalities, influencers, and media professionals have received official warnings not to engage in, endorse, or appear in content associated with gambling or adult material. The government’s outreach aims to safeguard young audiences and prevent normalization of online betting behaviors.
Measures Reflect Wider Government Push for Digital Accountability
These new online gambling prohibitions are part of a broader campaign in Bangladesh designed to reduce illegal betting and digital criminal activity. The NCSA recently issued a non-compliance notice to ESPNcricinfo citing accusations relating to advertising and tax violations. Simultaneously, authorities initiated investigations targeting over 1,000 mobile agents suspected of facilitating unauthorized online betting.
The crackdown underscores increasing governmental focus on digital oversight and stricter regulation of online content across Bangladesh. The response from technology platforms and the wider advertising industry to these sweeping changes remains to be seen.
| Agency Involved | Role |
|---|---|
| National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) | Leads monitoring, website blocking, fining, and legal enforcement |
| Criminal Investigation Department (CID) | Supports investigations and enforcement |
| Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) | Assists with regulation of telecom-related infractions |
- Author
Daniel Williams
