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Internet service providers in France have been instructed to block access to Polymarket, a prominent prediction market, following accusations of violating gambling laws and potential interference with outcomes.
The directive was issued on July 16, 2026, by the Autorité nationale des jeux (ANJ), France's gaming regulator.
The ANJ determined that Polymarket operates without the required authorization, stating that promoting unlicensed betting services can result in fines of up to €100,000.
The regulator said the platform contains gambling-like elements, including potentially addictive features, while lacking the consumer protections required of licensed operators.
Regulatory scrutiny intensifies across jurisdictions
The case also draws attention to broader questions around the promotion of gambling services online.
While the ANJ action focuses on Polymarket's authorization status, operators using PPC betting and Google Ads betting campaigns must separately ensure their advertising practices comply with local gambling laws and platform requirements.
Similar compliance considerations apply to PPC casino and Google Ads casino campaigns, where advertisers must avoid promoting unauthorized services.
Concerns about market manipulation, particularly concerning weather wagers showing signs of tampering and potential sensor compromise, prompted a formal investigation by the Paris Public Prosecutor's Office cybercrime division in May 2026.
Authorities also noted Polymarket's inadequate identity verification and Know Your Customer procedures.
The platform, which reportedly generates more than $1 billion in annual revenue, faces restrictions in several jurisdictions, including Spain, Singapore, and Brazil.
The ANJ has stated that the French ban will remain until Polymarket complies with national gambling regulations. The platform also faces legal challenges in the US, including a Kentucky lawsuit over alleged unlicensed sports wagering.
Gambling advertising faces stricter compliance demands
Online gambling operators are facing tighter requirements across advertising channels.
Companies using PPC casino and PPC betting strategies must follow regional licensing rules, while Google Ads casino and Google Ads betting campaigns require careful compliance with advertising policies.
As regulators continue to focus on consumer protection and illegal gambling activity, advertisers must ensure their campaigns target permitted audiences and jurisdictions while maintaining responsible promotional practices.
