The major Russian bookmakers Pari, Liga Stavok, and Winline have signed voluntary industry guidelines on fair advertising practices. The Association for the Development of Interactive Advertising (ADIA) developed the directive in collaboration with the operators.
The document sets out uniform rules for industry operators to improve transparency in advertising communications and protect users from unfair practices.
Guidelines introduce restrictions on so-called "hidden advertising," meaning disguising bookmaker advertising through entertainment formats such as sweepstakes or partnership projects.
A distinct set of recommendations covers advertising non betting related activities of operators, such as events or other services. When a user clicks on an advertisement, they should receive information specifically about the advertised product or event and not a gambling-related offer.
The adoption of guidelines comes amid tightening of legal requirements regarding advertising. Regulations coming into effect on 1 September 2026 will mandate gambling addiction risk warnings in all advertising communications.
Russia is increasingly recognising problem gambling as a public health issue that requires greater attention and support.
From 1 September 2026, Russians affected by gambling addiction will be able to access free, comprehensive care from psychiatrists and addiction specialists.
The country is also set to introduce the first unified clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gambling addiction. The initiative is being developed by the Serbsky Psychiatric and Addiction Research Centre.
Furthermore, Russia’s self-exclusion register is expected to begin operating on 1 September 2026.
Recently, the Ministry of Finance issued a Draft Order requiring operators to display prominent gambling-risk warnings on websites and in advertising.
The State Duma also approved in its first reading a bill that would ban bookmakers and totalizators from accepting bets made with credit cards.
The Russian State Duma recently approved legislation to accelerate the blocking of illegal online gambling sites, reducing the Federal Tax Service’s review period from five working days to two
